It’s not quite Bert Trautmann in the FA Cup final levels, but Ovince Saint Preux was up against it when completing his UFC 197 bout with a broken arm.
The Floridian went five rounds against former light-heavyweight champ Jon Jones after stepping in as a late replacement for the injured Daniel Cormier, who withdrew with a leg problem.
And OSP’s ability to go the distance was made even more impressive when we learned of the break after the fight.
The 33-year-old seemed in relatively good spirits as he announced on Twitter that “it’s kinda hard to tweet with one arm,” and he has no regrets about carrying on in spite of the injury.
if you didnt know, its kinda hard to tweet with one arm 😀. I'd like to thank the @ufc & @JonnyBones for the opportunity this past weekend…
— Ovince Saint Preux (@003_OSP) April 28, 2016
We didn't get the win, but not for lack of trying. Going 5 rounds w/ the p4p with a broken arm is not an easily accomplished task…
— Ovince Saint Preux (@003_OSP) April 28, 2016
Some people wouldve caved, but when you want something bad enough youll risk losing an arm for it. Cant say I dont have the heart of a champ
— Ovince Saint Preux (@003_OSP) April 28, 2016
Now I need the title to match. Big thanks to everyone that's supported & believed in me… #immokalee #vfl #rqq #Haiti #DownWithOSP @KnoxMma
— Ovince Saint Preux (@003_OSP) April 28, 2016
With Jones poised to finally get his rematch with Cormier at UFC 200, ‘OSP’ may have to wait a while before getting a title shot.
But whether you consider his efforts against Jones brave or stupid, his ability to carry on right until the end will not have gone unnoticed.
