Jon Jones asked. The UFC answered.
UFC president Dana White announced Saturday evening on ESPN's SportsCenter that Ovince Saint Preux would replace injured Daniel Cormier to fight Jones at UFC 197 on April 23.
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Hey @003_OSP just wanted to thank you for stepping up and taking this fight last minute. Grateful for the opportunity to compete with you
— Jon Bones Jones (@JonnyBones) April 2, 2016
Saint Preux (19-7-0) is ranked No. 6 in the light heavyweight division and will now get a title shot.
After news broke of Cormier's leg injury that will keep him sidelined from fighting, Jones (21-1-0) posted a video on Instagram asking UFC to send a new opponent his way for the fight in Las Vegas.
Jones also posted his condolences to Cormier on Twitter early Saturday, saying he hopes his rival recovers soon.
I don't wish injuries on anyone, I hope you have a healthy recovery Daniel. Enjoy that belt
— Jon Bones Jones (@JonnyBones) April 2, 2016