UFC's Anthony Johnson: Feud with John Howard far from over

Originally posted on MMAjunkie.com

UFC welterweight Anthony Johnson (7-2 MMA, 4-2 UFC) has a way of making headlines.

From stunning knockouts to controversial eye-pokes to a growing rivalry with John Howard (11-4 MMA, 1-0 UFC), "Rumble" today told MMAjunkie.com Radio (www.mmajunkie.com/radio) he's aware of the people that mention his name.

"Good or bad, people know my name," Johnson said. "They're talking about me. My name is out there one way or the other. Hopefully more good than bad."

And while a showdown with Matt Brown (9-7 MMA, 3-1 UFC) looms on the horizon, it's the name Howard that the brash young fighter can't wait to again hear linked to his own.

"I respect every fighter in the business," Johnson said. "I'm not the type to come out and say any negative things. [Howard] just rubbed me the wrong way.

"He said as soon as he gets the chance to fight me, he's going to hop on it. John, if you fight me I'm going to kick you in your [expletive] mouth and knock your teeth straight. Trust me."

The brewing rivalry started innocently enough. The two were rumored to meet at June's "TUF9" finale, but early reports of the bout being finalized proved false. Howard elected not to sign the deal, later crediting his handlers for making the final decision.

That explanation didn't sit well with Johnson.

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