UFC lightweight Beneil Dariush is out of his fight with Islam Makhachev next Saturday, and Bobby Green is targeted to step into the headlining spot at UFC Vegas 49.
One of the more anticipated non-title bouts of 2022 will have to wait as lightweight contender Beneil Dariush is out of his fight with Islam Makhachev next Saturday. Ariel Helwani of MMA Fighting was first to report the news. An ankle injury was reportedly the cause of Dariush’s withdrawal. ESPN later reported that fellow lightweight Bobby Green would be stepping into the bout, though a weight limit was not confirmed.
Both fighters have reportedly agreed to the match-up, though contracts have yet to be signed. Cageside Press confirmed EPSN’s initial report on Wednesday.
Dariush (21-4-1) is currently on a seven fight win-streak and last fought in May where he took on perennial title contender and former interim champion Tony Ferguson. The extent of his injury and timetable for his return is unknown. An additional report by ESPN noted that Dariush’s toe caught in the mat during a takedown in training, which resulted in an ankle injury.
Makhachev (21-1) is on a nine fight win-streak and was looking to record his first victory over a top five ranked opponent as he pursues a shot at the UFC lightweight title. Makhachev recently came to the United States to finish his training camp at the American Kickboxing Academy in San Jose with his teammate, former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Green (29-12) will be stepping in after recording a victory over Nasrat Haqparast this past Saturday. A part of the UFC since 2013, “King” has most recently gained momentum with the fans after exciting bouts in 2021 against Rafael Fiziev and Al Iaquinta. He has victories over former Strikeforce title challenger Josh Thompson and UFC veteran Clay Guida on his resume.
UFC Vegas 49 is scheduled to take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on Saturday, February 26, 2022.
