We now know why Holly Holm vs. Mayra Bueno Silva got the headlining spot on the UFC’s July 15 card.
Rafael dos Anjos vs. Vicente Luque, an intriguing all-Brazilian welterweight fight, was originally scheduled to headline that Fight Night event. However, earlier this week, it was revealed that Miesha Tate was out of her June 3 fight with Silva. Holly Holm then stepped up, with the fight shifting to July 15, into the main event slot.
As it turns out, that’s due to RDA vs. Luque being pushed back. The welterweight showdown now lands on the promotion’s August 12, 2023 Fight Night event, which does not have a venue, location, or broadcast plan officially announced.
MMA Fighting was first to report the news on Friday. No reason has been reported for the delay; the initial report notes that contracts have yet to be signed, but verbal agreements for the fight and date have been reached.
Rafael dos Anjos vs. Vicente Luque is expected to remain a five-round fight, headlining the August 12 card.
Luque (21-9-1) will be looking to snap a two-fight skid in the bout, after suffering back-to-back losses against Geoff Neal and Belal Muhammad. Prior to that, the 31-year old had run up a four-fight win streak.
Former lightweight champ dos Anjos (32-14) is coming off a win against Bryan Barberena at UFC Orlando this past December.
