UFC
UFC contender Anthony Johnson wants to return to action in August, but lacks available top end opponents
Jul 5, 2015 - 1:20:52 PM UFC contender Anthony Johnson wants to return to action in August, but lacks available top end opponents

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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Anthony "Rumble" Johnson's surge back into relevance over the last few years hit a wall in May, as he got worn out and submitted by Daniel Cormier at UFC 187. However, he's hoping to get himself right back on track later this summer.

According to a report earlier this week from UFC Tonight on Fox Sports 1, Johnson is hoping to return against another top competitor in August. However, he may find himself wanting on that front, as most of the division is tied up.

Of the current top ten in the UFC's rankings, the only names not officially booked for a fight are Ryan Bader, Rashad Evans, Jimi Manuwa, and Quinton "Rampage" Jackson. Further complicating things for Johnson is the fact that Bader and Evans want to face each other in October, Jackson is on the sidelines pending resolution of his injunction and contract dispute with Bellator, and Manuwa is on the sidelines following hand surgery.

Penick's Analysis: Johnson's either going to have to wait until later in the fall to return, and wait for the winner of one of the currently booked August fights, or he's going to need to fight someone well below him in the rankings. That may be fine as a "keep busy" option if he wants to get back, and give him a chance to get a confidence building win after the Cormier loss. If the UFC allows it, that may be the route he takes. Otherwise, he won't be back until later in the year.