The UFC has found its replacement for the injured Bryan Caraway at UFC Fresno.
In an announcement Tuesday, the UFC unveiled that bantamweight Andre Soukhamthath has been tabbed to step in to face Luke Sanders next month. The fight, originally to feature Sanders against Bryan Caraway, is scheduled for December 9 at UFC Fight Night 123, more commonly known as UFC Fresno. Cub Swanson meets Brian Ortega in the main event.
With Caraway hurt, Soukhamthath immediately stepped up on Twitter, asking the promotion to book him in the bout.
You know I’m always down to fight. I’m always ready. Put me in. I’m sure Cali and all the @ufc fans wouldn’t mind seeing me fight again. @seanshelby @Mickmaynard2 @danawhite https://t.co/vnNVb5gTP6
— Andre Soukhamthath (@AndreSoukMMA) November 21, 2017
Soukhamthath (11–5) is currently on a two-fight losing streak, having dropped bouts to Albert Morales and Alejandro Pérez. Both losses came in close split decisions, meaning he’ll be looking for the first win of his UFC career in Fresno. Prior to joining the UFC, the promotion’s first Lao fighter had served as the inaugural CES bantamweight champion.
Luke Sanders (11–1) will enter UFC Fresno off the first loss of his professional career. After being submitted by Iuri Alcântara via a kneebar at UFC 209, he’ll look to close out the year back in the win column. Prior to the Alcântara loss, Sanders had won his first eleven bouts, including his UFC debut against Maximo Blanco.
UFC Fight Night 123 takes place at the Save Mart Center in Fresno, CA on December 9.
