In an interview with Sherdog, Shinya Aoki has confirmed his interest in a possible bout against UFC Lightweight champion BJ Penn.
“I think there’s no doubt that B.J. Penn is still the best at 155 pounds. He’s most likely the best fighter in the world. I don’t ignore the UFC,” Aoki commented. “I respect the UFC because it’s a very high level organization -- a high summit in the sport.”
“Personally, the most decisive fight in the world, the culmination, the pinnacle for me is B.J. Penn,” Aoki said on the eve of arguably his greatest victory. “Please do not misunderstand -- I really need this to be clearly expressed in the media: Shinya Aoki will not go to the UFC. I just want to fight B.J. Penn. This is my selfish wish. I know that everyone says they want Penn, but I think I’m the number one Japanese fighter to be saying this.”
