UFC 279 looks totally different than it did 48 hours ago.
In MMA, seasoned followers have learned to expect the unexpected. Yet still, surprises come, as was the case Friday during weigh-ins when Khamzat Chimaez showed up nearly eight pounds over the welterweight limit.
The weigh-in issue resulted in a shuffle of matchups, including a new main event of Nate Diaz vs. Tony Ferguson – five rounds. The co-main event is now a grudge match between Chimaev and Kevin Holland – five rounds. Additionally, a bout between Li Jingliang and Daniel Rodriguez at a 180-pound contract weight serves as the featured bout.
Dana White announced the news on Instagram Live one hour before ceremonial faceoffs.
UFC 279 takes place Saturday at T-Mobile with the main card on ESPN+ pay-per-view after prelims on ESPNNews and ESPN+.
Scroll below to see what the MMA community had to say about the unusual UFC 279 main card opponent shuffle.
https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/ufc-279-reactions-nate-diaz-khamzat-chimaev-kevin-holland-tony-ferguson
