'Jones will never accept a change of opponent again', says coach

Jones (photo) faces Cormier at UFC 200: Josh Hedges/UFC

After defeating Ovince St Preux discreetly at UFC 197, Jon Jones stated that he felt difficulties due to the fact that he had to change opponents at the last minute. Therefore, his wrestling coach, Izzy Martinez, believes that the fighter will never again accept a change of this nature so close to his fights.

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Originally, Jones was going to face Daniel Cormier in the main fight of UFC 197. However, DC was cut from the attraction due to injury, and St. Preux was cast just over two weeks before the event. As early as 2012, Jones simply refused to face Chael Sonnen few weeks after being notified of the injury Dan Henderson, his original UFC 151 opponent.

In an interview with “SiriusXM” radio, Martinez stated that Jones actually felt difficulties with the change. “I think Jon is a fighter who is programmed, so it's kind of crazy with him. We had no problem accepting the fight, but I don't think Jon Jones will accept another fight at such short notice again, because there are many variables that we cannot prepare for. When we’re focused on one person and suddenly we have a new opponent, you know it’s difficult,” he explained.

Jones will finally face Cormier for the definitive light heavyweight belt on July 9, at UFC 200.