Vitor Belfort replaces Lyoto Machida against champ Jon Jones at UFC 152

Less than 24 hours after being declared the next light-heavyweight contender, Lyoto Machida has turned down a rematch with champ Jon Jones at UFC 152.

Stepping in for Machida is Vitor Belfort, who vacates a bout with Alan Belcher at UFC 153 to take t…

Less than 24 hours after being declared the next light-heavyweight contender, Lyoto Machida has turned down a rematch with champ Jon Jones at UFC 152.

Stepping in for Machida is Vitor Belfort, who vacates a bout with Alan Belcher at UFC 153 to take the title fight.

UFC officials announced the fight overnight. Machida’s manager, Ed Soares, told MMAjunkie.com a statement regarding the situation will be released today.