Ovince St. Preux replaces Daniel Cormier on UFC 197 main event

The injury bug has struck once more, as reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier announced that he will pull out of his scheduled bout against former champion John Jones due to a serious leg injury he sustained during training.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship confirmed the news via their Twitter page on Sunday, and tabbed rising star Ovince St. Preux (19-7) as Cormier’s replacement.

“Obviously, the No. 1 choice would be Anthony Johnson, who is the No. 2 ranked guy in the world and a fight that everybody wants to see. But Anthony Johnson just had surgery on his mouth and can’t even put a mouthpiece in for at least 3 weeks,” said UFC president Dana White during his interview with ESPN’s SportsCenter, regarding OSP’s selection.

St. Preux, who won 8 out of his last 10 fights, holds impressive victories against Brazilian veterans Mauricio “Shogun” Rua and Rafael Calvalcante. The 32-year old former Tennessee product  is lauded for his length and strong wrestling base—which are similar to what his current opponent possesses.

Jones (21-1), meanwhile, will make his 17th octagon appearance amidst some legal trouble for violating his parole agreement.

READ: UFC: Jones cleared to fight, will undergo anger management classes

His lone professional loss comes off a disqualification for using illegal elbows during his 2009 match against Matt Hammil.

Jones and St. Preux will clash for the interim light-heavyweight belt on April 23 (April 24, Manila time) at the main event of UFC 197 in Las Vegas Nevada,

The card will also feature UFC 125lb. champion Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson defending his belt against former Olympian Henry Cejudo in the co-main event. Khristian Ibarrola/INQUIRER.net

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