After his opponent pulled out of UFC 285, former bantamweight champ Cody Garbrandt finally revealed that works are on for another fight. In a tweet responding to a call out by Taylor Lapilus, the 31-year-old confirmed that an opponent would be announced soon; while also promising Lapilus that he would keep him “in mind for the future.” The former bantamweight champ was initially meant to face Julio Arce at UFC 285. However, owing to an injury, Arce had to withdraw himself. For Garbrandt, it was the third time since 2022 that an opponent has pulled out.

After losing five of his last six fights, fans cannot deny that it’s a must-win situation for the former champ. The 31-year-old finds himself in a rather precarious position. Another loss here would leave Garbrandt with only one win since 2016 and three back-to-back losses. Quite a downward spiral, considering he was once touted as the future of the promotion.

Cody Garbrandt responds to Taylor Lapilus and confirms the new fight announcement

After the announcement of Julio Arce‘s withdrawal, 30-year-old Lapilus threw his name in the hat, aiming to book a fight with Garbrandt. On a Twitter post, he called out the former champ with the following caption: “@Cody_Nolove what do you say, March 4th, Would you be kind enough to accept me as an opponent, I think I would shock the world.”

Garbrandt promptly responded, warning that he won’t show any kindness once inside the octagon.

Read More: VIDEO: UFC Bantamweight Champion, Sean O’Malley & Merab Dvalishvili Reveal Their Current Weight to Each Other

“I won’t be kind to you in the octagon my friend. I’ll keep you in mind for the future. My opponent will be announced soon.” said the former bantamweight champ.

Now, this is quite a revelation as fans were left wondering what was next for the 31-year-old.

Garbrandt left without an opponent after Julio Arce pulled out of UFC 285

Julio Arce had to pull out of the fight at UFC 285 owing to a knee injury. The fighter confirmed to MMA Junkie that after injuring his ACL, he would be requiring surgery on it. For Garbrandt, this was the third time he has found himself without an opponent since 2022; to no fault of his own.

UFC 285 would have served as a perfect stage for the former champion to turn the losing tide he’s been on. Since the event is headlined by a returning Jon Jones, a win here could give Garbrandt a much-needed shot of confidence as well as the limelight that comes with a big PPV card. Although he confirmed a fight with his tweet; there is still no update if it will be on UFC 285 or in a different event altogether.

Watch This Story: Five Times Sean O’Malley Obliterated His Opponents Inside The Octagon

However, a win here could mean a possible doorway into the top 15 of the bantamweight division, and more opportunities to climb up the ranks.