People forget Rumble only materialized as a contender in the last 9 months. He only had one fight in 2013, then a win in January 2014 still in WSOF. Re-signed with UFC to face Davis in April and then beat Nog; not exactly a murderer's row to become a contender, but its HOW he won those fights that did it. That's how quickly a contender can arise.
If Jon beats Rumble and Gus by the end of the year someone will have a similar build up or someone will have extended their streak.
I think the easy bet is on the winner of Davis and Bader. Davis 4-1 in last 5 (loss is rumble), Bader 3 in a row right now also 4-1 in last 5 with the loss being Glover who fought for title.
OSP 7-1 in last 8 (loss is Bader) or 14-2 in last 16. Manuwa is 14-1 with Gus his only loss.
Rampage just resigned is on a 3 win streak.
Jan Blachowicz on 6 win streak. No big names yet, but by 2016 who knows...
no shortage of contenders to be made
If Jon beats Rumble and Gus by the end of the year someone will have a similar build up or someone will have extended their streak.
I think the easy bet is on the winner of Davis and Bader. Davis 4-1 in last 5 (loss is rumble), Bader 3 in a row right now also 4-1 in last 5 with the loss being Glover who fought for title.
OSP 7-1 in last 8 (loss is Bader) or 14-2 in last 16. Manuwa is 14-1 with Gus his only loss.
Rampage just resigned is on a 3 win streak.
Jan Blachowicz on 6 win streak. No big names yet, but by 2016 who knows...
no shortage of contenders to be made