Jon Jones says Daniel Cormier 'has a lot of doubt', talks trash 'to make himself believe'

The highly anticipated grudge match at UFC 182 approaches, and the back-and-forth with the media has been continuing between the two combatants. Jon Jones spoke to MMA Fighting about it, and according to the dominant UFC champ, Daniel Cormier is talking smack to cover up for some of his self-doubt:

"I wouldn't say this feels like the Rashad fight. It actually feels closer to the Chael Sonnen fight. Chael Sonnen had a job commentating and broadcasting. He's a very good talker, and he has a way of making people believe.

"Daniel, he definitely has a great skillset and he's undefeated, but I think some of the things he says and the way he can relay a message verbally almost makes people believe in him a little bit more. I think if you actually look at our styles and our résumés, and not just listen to the things he says all the time, you may look at the fight a little differently."

"He reminds me of Chael Sonnen when he says things like that," Jones said dismissively. "No disrespect to Chael. Big fan of Chael, I really developed a respect for Chael. But Chael was very good at the antics and saying things that just aren't true. For him to say he's going to make it look easy, I know for a fact he doesn't believe that in his heart. How can you say that? I don't know what he's seeing in my footage of my fights, but to say he believes he'll win is one thing. To say he'll make it look easy is just, it's like saying I can fly. It holds no weight.

"He has a lot of doubt," Jones continued. "He's trying to make himself believe. Talk himself into just believing some of the crazy things he's been saying. I believe ultimately when it comes fight night, he's going to look back on everything he said and it's just going to create more pressure for him."

Has Cormier simply talked his way into making people 'believe', or is it his body of work and skill set that is making people think highly of his chances? Either way, majority seem to be convinced as the betting odds are incredibly close for a title fight.

Cormier is currently at +160, while Jones is at -165.