Chimaev vs. Diaz OFF, Tony Ferguson Steps In
After missing weight by a record-setting 7.5 lbs, Khamzat Chimaev has been pulled from his first PPV main event against Nate Diaz for UFC 279, and in steps Tony Ferguson. They will compete in a 5-round main event per Dana White.
Tony Ferguson competes in the Lightweight division (155 lbs) where he is currently ranked #11. However, he will now move up to Welterweight (170 lbs). Nate Diaz competes in the Welterweight division where he is currently unranked.
As soon as Chimaev vs. Diaz was announced, there was discontent towards the matchup as many fans wanted Diaz vs. Ferguson or McGregor. Those calls have been answered now.
Diaz and Ferguson have long been on each other's radars as they were both staples of the UFC Lightweight division's top 15 for years. They both won The Ultimate Fighter as well, albeit at different weight classes.
Daiz's last fight was against current Welterweight champion Leon Edwards. Although he lost the bout the moral victory belonged to him as he hurt Edwards badly near the end of the fight.
Ferguson's last fight was also a moral victory for himself despite it being a loss. He was KO'd by Michael Chandler in the 2nd round, but the early part of the fight showed signs of the old Tony Ferguson for the first time in years. He knocked down Chandler and won most exchanges on the feet, earning him the 1st round.
The stars seem to have aligned for this one and fans are sure to be treated to a show.
