The UFC is having a great run despite the COVID-19 pandemic affecting so many other sports. But unfortunately, cancelations are the new plague for many fights. We have seen fighters catching the virus or testing unfit for bouts prior to their events. The latest in the thread is Yair Rodriguez, whose next fight is canceled.
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Yair Rodriguez vs Zabit Magomedsharipov was on the cards for August 29 in Las Vegas. But El Pantera has injured himself weeks ahead of the match, and now the fight is officially canceled.
USA Today via Reuters
Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dana White confirms the injury of Yair Rodriguez
While speaking to the media at DWCS 27 post-event, Dana White said, “He got a high ankle sprain and a fracture, so he is out.”
Dana White says Yair Rodriguez is out of his fight against Zabit due to a high ankle sprain and a fracture. #DWCS pic.twitter.com/XE1G2Ln7TE
— The Schmozone (@TheSchmozone) August 5, 2020
The 27-YO Mexican MMA fighter (13-2-0, 1 NC) last fought and won against Jeremy Stephens this past year. He was having a golden run with 11 wins in his last 12 fights. That only loss came at the hands of Frankie Edgar. So this issue popping at the last moment is very unfortunate, both for him and the fans.
On the other hand, Zabit Magomedsharipov has had a cleaner run with an MMA record of 18-1-0. He had defeated Calvin Kattar in the UFC Fight Night 163 in his home country.
So, what’s next? Is the UFC looking for a replacement?
Calvin Kattar is eyeing a rematch
The last time Calvin faced a defeat against Magomedsharipov came from a unanimous decision. He wants one more shot at the Russian. His manager, Tyson Chartier, updated on Twitter that his fighter wishes to step in and make the fight happen. Their last meeting was for three rounds, while this one can be five.
If only there was another guy who was willing to step in 👷🏼♂️I already spoke to @CalvinKattar and we are ready to go. @danawhite @seanshelby @ufc ✍🏻#FIVErounds https://t.co/csifly1j4f
— Tyson Chartier (@TysonChartier) August 5, 2020
Zabit won all of his last 14 fights, six of which came inside the UFC Octagon. He has never lost in the UFC, and this makes his bouts very important. However, there is no official statement on this possible clash as of yet.
The UFC Fight Night 176 will also have Anthony Smith vs Aleksandar Rakić in the light heavyweight division, among other matches. The main event for the show is yet to be confirmed.
Sources: MMA Junkie, Tyson Chartier – Twitter, The Schmozone – Twitter
