After Li Jingliang’s latest spinal injury, the bout against Michael Chiesa has dropped altogether for UFC 287. However, there was news to find a replacement for the UFC welterweight as many options were rumored to be explored by the promotion. Many names popped up but none of them materialized as the UFC has failed to find a replacement for ‘Maverick’.

Chiesa has then given an explanation for the same as he is struck off the card from UFC 287. Fans have reacted to the news as many rumors arose about the replacement of Li Jingliang

Fans react to Michael Chiesa being removed from UFC 287

The fans had their say when the news broke out of Chiesa being removed from the event. However, many actually blamed the UFC welterweight for pulling out and not accepting his replacements.

Many were of the opinion that Chiesa should have fought his former opponent Kevin Lee. One such fan said that he ran away from that fight.

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Another fan was of the same opinion.

Similarly, there was a flurry of comments stating that ‘Maverick’ turned down Lee.

There were loads of fans that criticized the UFC welterweight.

One more fan added that Chiesa was picky while choosing his opponent.

A fan also listed some opponents that Chiesa could have faced.

Michael Chiesa explained the situation in a recent interview

The UFC welterweight appeared in the MMA Hour wherein he explained why he was removed from the card. He revelaed, “I’m not going to name names of the guys who were offered who turned it down, because it was a matter of visa issues and some guys not being able to make weight. I’m not that type of guy to go out there and blast, like, ‘So-and-so turned it down.’ Look, I’m a tough out for anybody at 170 pounds, especially if you only have a couple of weeks to prepare.”

Furthermore, ‘Maverick’ added that Niko Price wanted to fight him but, “the UFC had other plans for him.”

Read More: “Complete Bullsh*t”: Manager Brutally Shuts Down Kevin Lee’s Rematch Demands After Michael Chiesa Left Without an Opponent at UFC 287

Lastly, Chiesa wished Li Jingliang well for a speedy recovery from his spinal injury and hopes to face him in the future. He also called out Gunnar Nelson and considers him as a “tremendous competitor”. Chiesa would also prefer to fight Nelson in England in July as he thinks he wants to explore the idea of ‘go into enemy territory’.

What do you think about Chiesa being removed from the card at UFC 287? Let us know in the comments.\

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