MMA
Dominick Reyes says coronavirus pandemic shelved talks of Jon Jones rematch
Dominick Reyes says fans feel "cheated" with the results of UFC 247, when Jon Jones claimed a decision win and denied Reyes the chance to become the new lightweight champion.
Because of how close the fight was and the public interest of wanting to see a rematch, Reyes says talks had started with the UFC to officially run it back. But then the coronavirus pandemic hit the United States and those conversations were put to rest for the time being.
"Yes, we were talking early fall," Reyes told ESPN. "We started moving along, moving along, and then [COVID-19]. And that was it."
Due to COVID-19, the UFC was forced to postpone shows that were scheduled to take place on March 21, March 28, and this coming Saturday, April 11. As of right now, UFC president Dana White is insistent that UFC 249 will happen on April 18. Even though cards have been pushed back and more could be put on the shelf, Reyes feels the first battle was memorable enough to get what in his mind is rightfully his.
"What I did in our fight, what happened, it was a big event," Reyes said. "A lot of people talked about it for a long time. They're still talking about it. I think not just myself, but the people kind of feel cheated with that fight. They want to see it again, see me perform like I did once again. A lot of people think that belt is mine. I agree."
An obstacle that could be in Reyes' path to a sequel is Jones' arrest almost two weeks ago in New Mexico. Jones pleaded guilty, and as part of his agreement with prosecutors, he will serve 96 consecutive hours of community service, one year of supervised probation, minimum 90-day outpatient therapy and 48 hours of community service. It's unknown what type of punishment the UFC will give Jones. While upset with Jones' actions, Reyes hopes his employer gives Jones a slap on the wrist.
"Personally, I hope he doesn't get suspended, because I really need to rematch him for myself," Reyes said. "I've always respected Jon as a fighter. I've always respected him in the Octagon, but outside the Octagon, it's the same crap he's been doing before that disappointed me when I was a fan of him.
"I was a fan of him, he did that, and it disappointed me and made me not a fan when he hit that pregnant lady. Now he's doing the same thing."
To the latter, Reyes is referring to Jones' April 2015 hit-and-run incident involving a pregnant woman.
