Jon Jones' Teammate Released By UFC Following UFC Des Moines Defeat

Admin

3 min read

Post on May 04, 2025

4.5

Share

Jon Jones' Teammate, Ovince Saint Preux, Released by UFC After Des Moines Loss

The UFC has parted ways with veteran light heavyweight Ovince Saint Preux following his unanimous decision loss to Alonzo Menifield at UFC Des Moines on Saturday. The news, which broke late Sunday, sent shockwaves through the MMA community, particularly given Saint Preux's long history with the organization and his close association with UFC champion Jon Jones. This unexpected release raises questions about the UFC's roster management and the future prospects of fighters nearing the twilight of their careers.

Saint Preux, a decorated fighter with a notable 26-17 record, has been a fixture in the UFC's light heavyweight division for nearly a decade. Known for his powerful striking and aggressive fighting style, OSP, as he's affectionately known, has faced some of the biggest names in the sport, including current champion Jiri Prochazka. His connection to Jon Jones, who often trains alongside Saint Preux, adds another layer of intrigue to this sudden departure.

<h3>A Career Defined by Ups and Downs</h3>

OSP's UFC journey has been a rollercoaster. While he never quite reached championship contention, he consistently delivered exciting fights and amassed a loyal fanbase. His memorable performances included a controversial no-contest against Jones in 2016 and a stunning knockout victory over Mauricio Rua. However, recent years have seen a decline in his performance, with several losses leading up to his UFC Des Moines bout against Menifield.

• Highlight Reel Moments: OSP’s career boasts several highlight-reel knockouts and thrilling battles that cemented his place in UFC history.
• Consistency Issues: Despite his talent, inconsistency plagued his later career, leading to a series of wins and losses.
• The Jones Connection: His close relationship with Jon Jones undoubtedly brought him increased exposure and fan attention.

<h3>The Implications of OSP's Release</h3>

The UFC's decision to release Saint Preux after the Menifield fight sparks debate about the organization's criteria for retaining fighters. While performance is undoubtedly a key factor, the timing of the release—after a relatively competitive fight—has left many questioning the rationale. Some speculate the UFC might be streamlining its roster, focusing on younger, rising stars. Others suggest that the organization is increasingly prioritizing marketable fighters over veteran experience.

This release also highlights the precarious nature of a fighter's career. Even established veterans like Saint Preux, with significant contributions to the sport, can find themselves unexpectedly cut from the roster. It serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by athletes in a highly competitive industry.

<h3>What's Next for OSP?</h3>

Saint Preux's future remains uncertain. While he may be considering retirement, his experience and name recognition could lead to opportunities in other MMA promotions. Many fans and analysts believe he still has much to offer the sport and anticipate seeing him compete again soon, perhaps in a different organization. The possibility of a farewell fight, either in the UFC or elsewhere, cannot be ruled out. The MMA community waits with bated breath to see what chapter unfolds next in the career of this veteran warrior. The release of Ovince Saint Preux serves as a cautionary tale in the cutthroat world of professional mixed martial arts.

Keywords: Ovince Saint Preux, OSP, UFC, UFC Des Moines, Jon Jones, MMA, Mixed Martial Arts, Fighter Release, Alonzo Menifield, Light Heavyweight, Retirement, MMA Career, UFC Roster Cuts