Daniel Cormier DISAPPOINTED Alex Pereira vs. Jon Jones fight WON'T HAPPEN: "That's EASY MONEY!"

A lot’s going on in MMA, but the gut punch is Alex Pereira saying he won’t fight on the White House card; he’s a star who usually brings chaos and finishes.

Why does that sting so much? It undercuts the easiest blockbuster on the table, Pereira versus Jon Jones, and Jones already signaled he’d do it and is back in the testing pool.

On that stage, the story writes itself: against an American champion, Pereira likely gets cast as the foil for an Independence Day show.

Did someone tell Pereira he’s not part of the plan? Maybe, because going public like that is odd, and Jones seems to think if Pereira sits out, he’s sitting too since they need each other to get on that card.

If those two are off, how do you make the card feel massive? You stack it with titles and recognizable names the way UFC 300 did with champions up and down the bill.

The simple fix is still the best: book Jones versus Pereira; both guys want it and it gives you a marquee American without hunting for a different anchor.

Will Conor try to jump on that date? I think so, likely against Michael Chandler, but Chandler would be a big underdog and you still want a favored American in a title spot.

If Jones and Pereira meet, I prefer it at light heavyweight; Jones was sharper at two hundred five because the cut kept him locked in, while heavyweight gives him too much room to be lax.

Why might Pereira be out today? The UFC may want him active before June since there are several numbered events before the White House show.

Which Americans fit that stage? Justin Gaethje would be perfect if he beats Paddy Pimblett and turns around for June.

Does Jones pivot to Tom Aspinall? I doubt it, and Tom says he needs eye surgery after the poke from Ciryl Gane; I checked in and he told me his eyes are still giving him trouble.

Bottom line, I hope we still get Jones versus Pereira, and I believe Conor ends up on that bill if the UFC wants the biggest night ever.

This sport flips overnight; champions have turned over all year, so Pereira being off today could become on tomorrow.

Quick update before I go: Cain Velasquez’s parole date moved to February, so please keep him in your prayers and let’s hope he’s home coaching again soon; like and subscribe, and thanks for all the support.