5 potential next opponents for Glover Teixeira

#4. Anthony Smith vs. Glover Teixeira II

Anthony Smith holds a record of 36-16

Anthony Smith is riding a wave of momentum that could feasibly lead to him becoming the next challenger for Glover Teixeira. He's already challenged for the belt previously, is ranked No.4 and is coming off the back of three first round finishes.

There would be a great story behind a potential rematch between these two. Smith looked great in the first round before being overwhelmed and the fight getting stopped in the fifth round. Watching Smith look to get that loss back and win the title that has eluded him previously would be compelling viewing.

Another factor that may work in Smith's favor is the current timeline. Smith is traditionally less active in the summer months so that he can spend time with his family. In winter, however, he competes regularly. This gives Smith ample opportunity to rack up a couple more victories before May. Should he accomplish this, 'Lionheart' might become the rightful number one contender.

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#3. Aleksandar Rakic vs. Glover Teixeira

Rakic holds a record of 14-2

Aleksandar Rakic has been calling for a number one contender bout for some time now. Teixeira's announcement that he wants to fight in May may mean that he ends up getting that fight.

This provides the most straight-forward path to the title we've seen on this list thus far. Rakic could take on Jiri Prochazka early next year. Winning that bout would all-but-guarantee him a shot at Teixeira's gold.

Rakic would certainly be a tough one for Teixeira, given that he's only lost once in his UFC career thus far. He's defeated Anthony Smith and Thiago Santos in his last two bouts.

While Teixeira vs. Rakic may not be the most high-profile bout given Rakic is yet to establish himself as a "big name," it is certainly not outside the realms of possibility that this could be the fight to make in May.