Ovince Saint Preux Replaces Daniel Cormier, Will Face Jon Jones at UFC 197

Jon Jones is all set to face Ovince Saint Preux at UFC 197 for the interim championship after Daniel Cormier pulled out of the fight due to injury.

There were doubts regarding the appearance of Jones after the injury of Cormier, but UFC confirmed that Jones would indeed fight at the event. Anthony Johnson was the first choice to replace Cormier, but Johnson was unable to accept the offer due to medical reasons.

This opened the door for Preux who has a 19-7 record with 7-2 in UFC. He is currently ranked sixth in the weight class and is expected to give Jones a good fight.

"The one thing we've learned in the 16 years in this business is you never know what's going to happen. Anything is possible when two guys get in there. Jon Jones and OSP have never faced off before. No. 1 versus No. 6. Two big, strong, athletic, explosive guys. Anything is possible," Dana White said .

Meanwhile, in a statement given to ESPN, Cormier stated that he would be out for around six weeks due to the injury.

"The decision not to fight on April 23 was one of the hardest decisions I've had to make. I've been scheduled to fight 18 times, and I have made that walk every time. I want to apologize to Jon Jones, Lorenzo Fertitta, Dana White and all of the UFC fans for not being able to defend my title. The recovery should not take very long, and I can't wait to compete and defend my title again. For all the fans, thanks for your support. I appreciate each and every one of you," Cormier said.

UFC 197 is scheduled to take place on April 23.