Jared Cannonier Reflects On His UFC Role Ahead Of Fight With Gregory Rodrigues

Jared Cannonier is aware that some might categorize him as a "gatekeeper" in the UFC middleweight division, but he's not too concerned about labels. While he respects the perspective, Cannonier doesn’t agree with being pigeonholed into that role.

Following his tough title fight against Israel Adesanya in 2022, Cannonier (15-7 MMA, 8-7 UFC) has had a somewhat uneven record. His performance since that high-profile bout has been 2-2, with back-to-back defeats in 2024 leaving questions about his position in the division. However, despite the setbacks, Cannonier remains determined to prove himself.

Next up for Cannonier is a pivotal clash with the rising middleweight star Gregory Rodrigues (14-5 MMA, 5-2 UFC) at UFC Fight Night, where Cannonier is ready to take on the 3-fight win streak holder in a main event. Rodrigues’ rapid ascent poses a serious challenge for Cannonier, and it will be a key test in defining his UFC future.

“I’ve been through this before,” Cannonier said at UFC Fight Night media day. “In this sport, we fight to win, but it’s also business. You could say I’m the ‘sacrificial lamb’ for some of these young contenders trying to make their name. But, honestly, it’s just another fight. I’m here to do what I do best.”

Despite the label others may assign, Cannonier insists his role isn’t about being a stepping stone, even though his recent fights, such as the one against No. 12-ranked Caio Borralho, have added fuel to that fire. For Cannonier, it's simply a part of the process: beating tough opponents to secure his place in the middleweight ranks.

“The ‘gatekeeper’ thing doesn’t bother me, but I’m not putting myself in that box,” Cannonier explained. “I don’t really focus on how others see me, I just prepare for every fight the same way. I’m always ready for battle, no matter the opponent.”