The highly anticipated co-main event of UFC Abu Dhabi, featuring the undefeated Movsar Evloev against UFC newcomer Aaron Pico, has been canceled, leaving fans and fighters alike disappointed. The event, scheduled for July 26th, was set to be headlined by a middleweight bout between Robert Whittaker and Reinier de Ridder.
Evloev Withdraws Due to Injury
According to Red Corner MMA, Evloev was forced to withdraw from the fight due to an injury or health condition sustained during his fight camp in Thailand. The nature of the injury remains undisclosed.
Pico Expresses Disappointment, Eyes UFC 319
Aaron Pico, understandably frustrated by the cancellation, took to social media to express his disappointment. "Not going to sugarcoat it. I'm pretty disappointed you pulled out of this one," Pico wrote. He also hinted at a potential rebooking of the fight at UFC 319 in Chicago on August 16th, headlined by Dricus du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev. "I understand there's an opening for us on August 16th in Chicago... I'll see you in Chicago, Movsar Evloev."
The UFC has yet to confirm whether they will attempt to rebook the Pico vs. Evloev fight for UFC 319 or seek a replacement opponent for Pico in Abu Dhabi.
UFC Abu Dhabi Still a Strong Card
Despite the loss of the co-main event, UFC Abu Dhabi remains a strong card. Shara Magomedov is still scheduled to compete, and the main event promises an exciting clash between Whittaker and de Ridder.
Pico, a highly touted prospect with a background in wrestling and boxing, is eager to make his UFC debut. He holds a 13-4 record and was considered a rising star during his time with Bellator MMA. His last 10 fights show a 9-1 record. Fans are hopeful that the UFC will find a solution to get Pico back in the octagon soon.