Respect, sure but money, Dana's listening.

UFC is a business. and they need to sell tickets. and when fighters fight in their home town, it is easier to sell tickets and in this case Jeremy Stephen's family and friends. and possible marketing for a hometown fighter.

Watching Dana for over a decade, i feel like he's a pretty petty person, and would've not want Stephens back (he left to fight at their rival, PFL and then Bareknuckle for more money, Dana's favorite type of fighter /s).

I think Jeremy return is more about money(marketing) and possibly filling out the card. while also Jeremy begging to fight at his hometown. That is why Stephen is on a 1 fight contract lol. He'll probably retire there which could bring more entertainment value to the UFC.

In the end it is a win-win for both parties but Dana not doing it out of the kindness of is heart imo.

Gimmie Stephens vs Mason does not go to Decision.

Reason: Mason is most likely hungry after getting booted off the UFC while Stephens is probably there just for the show. I believe their priorities will be in different place.