The main event of UFC 197 has been saved folks, and it only took a few hours for the UFC to find a new opponent for former UFC light heavyweight champion, Jon Jones.
Following the withdrawal of Daniel Cormier yesterday from UFC 197, Jones released a video clip on Instagram, expressing his desire to fight – against anyone – in the main event. Meaning Jones was even willing to fight at heavyweight for the first time in his MMA career.
And now a new challenge for Jones is officially set in stone. Yesterday evening, UFC President Dana White announced on ESPN that a bout between Jones and No. 6 ranked light heavyweight contender Ovince Saint Preux is the new main event. The contest will also be for the interim light heavyweight belt.
White said,
Jon has never lost his title in the Octagon. He was stripped of his title because of problems outside. It was the right thing to do… he will fight for the light heavyweight interim title.
OSP is currently coming off a win over Rafael Cavalcante via a unanimous decision in February. He has won three of his last four fights with his first UFC loss to Glover Teixeira mixed in. Under the Zuffa owned banner, OSP has wins over Mauricio Rua and Patrick Cummins.
UFC 197: Jones vs. Saint Preux will be held on April 23, 2016 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
