As expected, Jon Jones was reinstated by the UFC after a thorough review of his plea bargain in connection with a hit-and-run incident back in April.
This means that Jones is eligible to return to action though the UFC makes it clear that his reinstatement is more of a privilege than a right. Apparently UFC officials put into consideration the progress that Jones has had in his community service whose aim was to educate and guide kids to grow and develop properly.
“I am thankful to be able to do what I love once again and I look forward to proving myself as a champion in and outside of the Octagon,” Jones said via UFC.com
The reinstatement of Jones should be welcome news for UFC fans since it makes the much awaited rematch between Jones and current UFC light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier within reach.
Cormier has been aching for payback against Jones who dealt him his first defeat back in January. When Jones fell into a maze of trouble, Bones was stripped of the title and eventually meted an indefinite suspension.
Cormier won the title by defeating Anthony Johnson at UFC 187 back in May. His last title defense was against Alexander Gustaffson whom he beat via split decision at UFC 192 last month.
Upon learning that Jones was finally reinstated, Cormier congratulated Jones and of course welcomed the rematch. Here is the official statement from Daniel Cormier’s Facebook page.
“For MMA fans this is a good day,” Cormier wrote. “A guy that has shown to be one of the greatest fighters of all time is back. As a competitor there could be no other outcome and this is the best news I’ve heard in a long time.”
Cormier and Jones aren’t exactly the best of buddies. It remains to be seen how things will pan out between the two once negotiations and press events will turn out considering the two have already brawled before.
On the other end, Jones’ reinstatement and possible rematch shuts the doors for now on Ryan Bader.
Before the recent developments, Bader was making a case that it should be him facing Cormier and then Jones next. But most of that was done with Jones apparently still serving his suspension and satisfying the conditions of his plea deal.
Bader’s pitch for a title-shot came after he won via unanimous decision over a returning Rashad Evans also at UFC 192.
The rematch could likely take place in 2016 with Cormier seeking payback for his previous defeat to Jones. On the other end, Jones will be looking to reclaim the title he once held.