As announced on Tuesday night on “FOX Sports Live,” Daniel Cormier will now fight Anthony Johnson for the undisputed UFC light heavyweight title at UFC 187 on May 23 in Las Vegas. Jon Jones was stripped of the title by the UFC following his arrest Monday night.
Cormier provided this statement to MMAFighting.com upon hearing the news:
“Make no mistake about it, this is a sad day for our sport. One of the best fighters of all time has found himself in trouble again. It sucks. Despite our differences, I truly wish the best for Jon and his family, and I know he can get through this.
“But in life, opportunity knocks, and it’s up to you to answer the door. So as I’ve done time and again, I’m answering that door. I will be in Vegas on May 23 — you can count on me — I will win the belt, and then when Jon is ready to return, I will be happy to give him a shot at my belt.”
Cormier lost to Jones via unanimous decision at UFC 182 in January. He was scheduled to fight Ryan Bader on June 6, and UFC officials said Tuesday night that no decision has been made about what’s next for Bader.