URGENT UPDATE: The UFC 319 pay-per-view event has abruptly lost three highly anticipated fights just two days before the event. This shocking turn of events raises concerns for fans and fighters alike as the fight card undergoes significant changes.
Most notably, Bryan Battle (12-2) has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled middleweight bout against Nursulton Ruziboev (36-9-2) after missing the weight limit by a staggering 4 pounds. This marks a troubling trend for Battle, who has now missed weight for the second consecutive fight, having previously struggled at welterweight in December. Despite moving up a weight class for this event, Battle’s failure to make weight is a significant setback for his career and the event itself.
Adding to the turmoil, the welterweight finale bout from “The Ultimate Fighter” between Rodrigo Sezinando and Daniil Donchenko has also been scrapped due to an injury sustained by Sezinando. This bout will be rescheduled for a later date, leaving fans disappointed.
Moreover, a fan-favorite lightweight matchup between Diego Ferreira and King Green has been canceled as well, with Green announcing via social media that he is unable to compete due to injury.
Despite these cancellations, UFC 319 isn’t completely derailed. The highly anticipated main event middleweight title fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev remains on track. Both fighters successfully made weight yesterday, with Chimaev coming in at 183 pounds, just below the limit. In a show of preparedness, Caio Borralho has also made weight as a backup, though it appears his services will not be required at this time.
Fans are left wondering how these developments will affect the overall excitement of UFC 319, scheduled for Saturday, October 21, 2023. The stakes are high, and the fight card is still subject to change as the event approaches. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation unfolds.