Anderson Silva sides with Jon Jones says Israel Adesanya ‘crossed the line’
Anderson Silva has picked a side in the ongoing feud between Jon Jones and Israel Adesanya. The feud first started when Adesanya called out Jones. Since then the two have been trading shots at each other on frequent occasion.
Silva, who fought Adesanya at UFC 234, believes ‘The Last Stylebender’ disrespected Jones with the way he handled the trash-talk.
“The way I see it, as an athlete, he disrespected Jon Jones,” Silva told reporters today in Brazil (transcript via MMAJunkie). “I think for the business, for (UFC President) Dana (White), it’s great. It’s great business for the UFC. Regardless of whether they fight or not, the UFC wins – and the fans. But there is a lack of respect. I think he crossed the line a bit.”
Although Jones added fuel to the fire, Silva knows Adesanya is young and eager to show why he is the best. However, ‘The Spider’ believes ‘The Last Stylebender’ should show the same respect to Jones as he did to him.
“With time, he’ll learn how to deal with those things,” Silva said. “I think he has to respect everything Jon Jones has done. It’s two great fighters. In the future, who knows – they might fight. But I’m from a time when you have honor. You respect everyone’s space. And that’s my opinion.”
There is no question Silva doesn’t agree with Adesanya’s callout of Jones but understands why the UFC may be interested in the potential fight.
“That’s my personal opinion because Israel is young and Jon Jones has a great story for a long time in this sport,” Silva said. “I think Adesanya needs to respect Jon Jones, but for the business, it’s good for Dana.
“I respect all fighters, especially Jon Jones. Jon Jones is my young brother and I don’t have a problem talking about Jon Jones. He’s the best fighter in the world.”
Do you agree with Anderson Silva that Israel Adesanya crossed the line in his trash-talk with Jon Jones? Sound off in the comment section, PENN Nation!
This article first appeared on BJPenn.com on 4/17/2019
Topics:
Anderson Silva Israel Adesanya Jon Jones UFC
