While not the way he expected it to go down, Daniel Cormier has been given back the Light Heavyweight Title (UFC.com)
Daniel Cormier reinstated as the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion after Jon Jones tests positive for steroids
Cormier reclaims the title as a result of Jones being stripped for the third time
Daniel Yanofsky
Daniel Cormier must be all smiles as he regains the Light Heavyweight Title (UFC.com)
I guess we can all pretend UFC 214 didn't happen. Just like that, Daniel Cormier is once again the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion.
It didn't take long for a decision to be made regarding Jon Jones and the UFC Light Heavyweight Title. After the CSAC overturned the result of Jon Jones v. Daniel Cormier at UFC 214 to a no-contest, many were left wondering what would that mean for the title. Dana White made it clear that the title would go back to Cormier if Jones was suspended by the USADA. After the news broke that Jones tested positive for the steroid Turinabol, he failed the "B" test as well. His fate was sealed after that.
In a lengthy announcement, Cormier (19-1, 1 NC) confirmed the news on FS1's UFC Tonight program.
httpss://twitter.com/UFCONFOX/status/908121153633271809
Cormier made sure to make legitimate points at the expense of Jones (22-1, 1 NC), without sounding as hostile compared to their media scrums. Jones disqualified himself by wasting an opportunity, again. While it's an unfortunate way to take back the title, Cormier will gladly take it. Financially, it is important for Cormier to hold onto the belt as a man almost entering his 40's. While some see it as him getting handed the belt, he was the rightful person to take it. Regardless, he would have to have been in a fight for the title if one was to be made.
As for Jones, this is another mark on a man once considered one of the best fighters in MMA history. This will be the third time Jones has been stripped of the title. The first time was in April of 2015 after a hit-and-run situation. The second time was before UFC 200 after beating Ovince Saint Preux for the interim title at UFC 197. After receiving a one-year suspension it was assumed Jones would never be in this situation again. Now, he could face a suspension ranging to about four years. What will become of Jon Jones after that time?
This is another piece to the confusing puzzle that is Jon Jones. One of the greatest rivalries in UFC history has been deemed obsolete due to controversy after controversy. The same will be said about Jones.
What happens now is up in the air. It is unknown when Cormier will defend his title next, but he seems ready for anything. As seems to be tradition, the UFC will have a lot of work to do to work past this entire situation.
Daniel is a Managing Editor at DoubleGSports.com, and covers all things combat sports (MMA, Pro Wrestling and Boxing). He is also the lead New York Mets writer. When he's not writing, Daniel hosts a Sunday podcast, The Main Event.
Latest posts by Daniel Yanofsky (see all)
McNeil for MVP? The case to crown the "Flying Squirrel" the best in the National League - July 12, 2019
Following his win at UFC 239, what's next for Jon Jones? - July 11, 2019
Polar Bear Power – Pete Alonso Wins The Home Run Derby - July 9, 2019
Related TopicsDaniel CormierJon Jonesmmaufcufc 214
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Fighting Words: I feel bad for Daniel Cormier right now