UFC salvages Mariya Agapova vs. Melissa Gatto matchup for June 13 event

Mariya Agapova vs. Melissa Gatto will still take place June 13, just not at its original location.

Originally booked for the UFC’s debut in Kazakhstan, the matchup will be part of the revamped June 13 lineup, expected to take place at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas. That’s pending Nevada Athletic Commission approval to resume combat sports in the state after the coronavirus pandemic forced a pause.

Both fighters recently confirmed the news on social media after an initial report by Combate.

The bout is slated to be both fighters’ promotional debuts, with Agapova (8-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) having made stops on Dana White’s Contender Series and Invicta FC. Agapova’s lone professional loss came by decision against Tracy Cortez on DWCS, Season 3 in July 2019.

As for Gatto (6-0-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC), this marks the fourth time her UFC debut has been scheduled. Prior to the Kazakhstan event cancellation, Gatto had been booked at UFC 237 and UFC 239. Both fights, she pulled out due to injury.

With the addition, the UFC’s June 13 lineup includes:

• Cynthia Calvillo vs. Jessica Eye
• Mark De La Rosa vs. Jordan Espinosa
• Karl Roberson vs. Marvin Vettori
• Ryan Benoit vs. Tyson Nam
• Andre Fili vs. Charles Jourdain
• Mariya Agapova vs. Melissa Gatto
• Luana Carolina vs. Ariane Lipski