TONY FERGUSON will take on Nate Diaz at UFC 279 in a new main event. This is after Khamzatchimaev lost weight.
The unbeaten welterweight weighed in for the scheduled Las Vegas bout a whopping seven-and-a-half-pounds over the limit.
Tony Ferguson was drafted in to replace Khamzat Chimaev and face Nate Diaz
After his five-round bout with Ferguson, Diaz will be leaving UFC
The UFC released a statement advising Chimaev to stop cutting weight because of weight management issues.
The 28-year-old will now face Kevin Holland in a catchweight bout at 180 lbs at the T-Mobile Arena.
UFC veteran Ferguson (38), has stepped in as the replacement for the Swedish star. He hasn't fought since May's brutal knockout loss to Michael Chandler.
Ferguson was originally scheduled to face Li Jingliang. He is currently on a four-fight losing streak that began in May 2020.
This weekend's main event will be Diaz vs Ferguson at UFC 279 Las Vegas.
This is believed to be Diaz’s final fight in his 15-year UFC career, with the 37-year old on the last bout of his contract.
After Ferguson's fight was confirmed, Diaz immediately criticized Chimaev. He stated that Ferguson was afraid to face him in the octagon.
He stated that Tony's been around for a long while, so we should have fought long ago.
"Khabib [Nurmagomedov]'s ****a** was afraid just like this ****a** momf ***** was afraid yesterday.
"We punched his ****a** here and now he has lost weight.
"You guys know it already. California is home to the Real Gs *****."
Ferguson has meanwhile promised fireworks against his compatriot.
He said, "Grab your f ****** popcorn & blue Slushees momf ****** because it's going to be a lot of fun!"
