Earning wins in the UFC is certainly no easy task, but what comes next is often even more important: the post-fight callout.
So after Saturday’s UFC on ESPN+ 25 event in Rio Rancho, NM., who took advantage of their time on the mic? See below for this week’s Callout Collection – and just how realistic each one is.
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First up, let’s take a look at the night’s prelim winner.
Macy Chiasson
Wants to fight: Nicco Montano
The callout: “I’d still love to run it back with Nicco once she is all recovered. She’s a former champ and ranked, so I’d love that. Maybe sometime in May if it works out for everyone.”
The reality: It’s the matchup that was originally planned for Rio Rancho, but a Grade 2 MCL sprain forced the former flyweight champion off the card. After Macy Chiasson’s solid display and victory, it seems perfectly reasonable for the UFC matchmakers to revisit the booking for this summer, Montano’s fitness permitting.
Next up, let’s check out the main card.
Jan Blachowicz
Wants to fight: Jon Jones
The callout: “They were wrong about me. I proved I was one of the best in the world. Let’s talk about my next opponent, Jon Jones. He’s here.
“You promised me that in the show when I meet you. You are next. Let’s do this. Tell me when. Give me the place and time.”
The reality: There’s absolutely no denying it. Jan Blachowicz has proved his worth as a top contender after hitting form with three straight victories. Many thought Jones would have faced Corey Anderson had “Overtime” picked up the win in Rio Rancho, so Blachowicz’s stunning first-round finish means his case is an undeniable one.
It might not appease those who demand that Jones faces Dominick Reyes in a rematch, or moves up to face Stipe Miocic at heavyweight. But if Team Jones fancies a fresh challenge for their man before revisiting Reyes or stepping up to heavyweight, Blachowicz is clearly the man at the front of the queue. He might not be the fans’ No. 1 pick, but he might be Jones’ choice.
