You knew something was bound to happen to either UFC light heavyweight king Jon Jones (pictured) or Daniel Cormier. UFC 178 was just too far away for the injury bug not to rear its ugly head.
On Tuesday, the planet’s premier mixed martial arts promotion announced Jones has suffered a leg injury that will force him out of September 27’s highly-anticipated scrap against Cormier. The good news is that the shootout is still on, just postponed until January 3, which is expected to be numbered UFC 182.
No word on what venue will host the event.
Details surrounding the specifics of Jones’ injury were not disclosed.
Of course, today’s news puts a damper on the momentum Jones and Cormier kick-started just eight days ago when they got into an impromptu brawl at the UFC 178 media day. The scuffle ignited a media firestorm, building great mainstream interest.
If you’ve already bought tickets to UFC 178, you’ll still be treated to a title fight. Flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson will now defend his throne against Chris Cariaso in the show’s featured attraction. The 125-pounders were initially slated to co-headline UFC 177.
Does that make it better? Didn’t think so…
UFC 178 takes place inside MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Here is the card’s revised agenda:
Kevin Lee vs. Jon Tuck
Brian Ebersole vs. John Howard
Patrick Cote vs. Stephen Thompson
Cat Zingano vs. Amanda Nunes
Bobby Green vs. Jorge Masvidal
Conor McGregor vs. Dustin Poirier
Tim Kennedy vs. Yoel Romero
Dominick Cruz vs. Takeya Mizugaki
Chris Cariaso vs. Demetrious Johnson (UFC flyweight champion champion)