MMA champion accepts short-notice UFC debut as replacement for Said Nurmagomedov

A new face will have the chance to join the flyweight conversation this Saturday night.

This is the first UFC Fight Night since Paramount took over, and it’s scheduled for February 7 at the Apex. The main event features bantamweights Mario Bautista and Vinicius Oliveira facing off.

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While several familiar names are still on the card, one has quietly disappeared: flyweight Said Nurmagomedov.

The Dagestani reportedly withdrew from UFC Vegas 113 due to visa issues, canceling his fight against Javid Basharat.

But it didn’t take long for the promotion to find a replacement…

Gianni Vazquez steps in on short notice to face Basharat at UFC Vegas 113

Nurmagomedov was looking to bounce back from losses to Bryce Mitchell and Vinicius Oliveira, but he will now have to wait a little longer for that opportunity.

However, his absence gave a new face the opportunity to take over.

Nurmagomedov’s withdrawal was first mentioned by @ClubDeLasMMA, who also revealed that Gianni Vazquez would take the spot.

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Vazquez, known as “Kriptonita,” is Up Next Fighting’s flyweight champion. He’s been on a strong streak recently, with four straight wins by different methods – one by knockout, another by submission and two more by decision.

The 31-year-old is actively campaigning for a chance in the UFC. Last October, he tagged Dana White and the UFC matchmakers in a post asking for a fight, and more recently pushed for an appearance at the Mexico City event later this month.

Instead, he will make his debut before then when he faces Basharat in the UFC Vegas 113 prelims at the Apex.

Adding another layer of interest, Javid’s brother Farid will also be on this card when he faces Jean Matsumoto further up the bill.

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