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

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Post on May 04, 2025

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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 recent loss at UFC Des Moines. The news, announced late last week, comes as a surprise to some, but underscores the increasingly competitive nature of the UFC roster and the pressure to consistently perform at a high level. Saint Preux, a teammate of reigning heavyweight champion Jon Jones, leaves the organization after a nine-year tenure marked by both thrilling victories and heartbreaking defeats.

A Career Defined by Ups and Downs:

Ovince Saint Preux, or "OSP" as he's affectionately known to fans, joined the UFC in 2013. His career was a rollercoaster of exciting fights and near-misses. He quickly gained notoriety for his devastating knockout power and aggressive fighting style. While he never quite reached the championship level, he consistently delivered entertaining performances against top-ranked opponents. His memorable fights against the likes of Jimi Manuwa, Glover Teixeira, and Volkan Oezdemir cemented his place in UFC history. However, his recent string of losses, culminating in his defeat at UFC Des Moines, appears to have sealed his fate.

The Des Moines Setback:

OSP’s loss at UFC Des Moines against Alonzo Menifield highlighted the challenges he faced in his later career. While he showcased moments of his trademark aggression, he ultimately couldn't overcome Menifield's power and younger, fresher energy. This defeat, coupled with a series of previous setbacks, likely contributed to the UFC's decision to release him. The fight, a three-round unanimous decision loss, didn't showcase the OSP fans were accustomed to seeing.

The Impact of Jon Jones' Connection:

The fact that OSP was a teammate of Jon Jones, arguably the greatest fighter in UFC history, adds another layer of intrigue to this situation. While Jones' influence on OSP's career within the UFC is largely speculative, it's undeniable that being associated with such a dominant force within the sport could, in some ways, create both opportunities and additional pressure.

What's Next for OSP?

The release opens a new chapter for Saint Preux. His considerable experience and name recognition make him a valuable asset to other promotions. Many expect him to land a lucrative contract elsewhere. The veteran fighter could potentially explore opportunities in Bellator MMA, ONE Championship, or even the burgeoning world of professional boxing. The future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: OSP's journey in mixed martial arts is far from over.

The Future of the Light Heavyweight Division:

OSP's departure leaves a void in the already competitive light heavyweight division. The UFC's roster continues to evolve, with young, hungry fighters vying for opportunities. This event serves as a stark reminder of the transient nature of success in professional MMA, urging fighters to maintain consistency and deliver captivating performances.

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