UFC officials have confirmed that Al Iaquinta will not fight Justin Gaethje on August 25th in Lincoln, Nebraska. There was no reason given by Iaquinta for backing out of the fight.
The UFC quickly named James Vick as the new opponent for Gaethje. Vick is 9-1 in the UFC and ranked 10th in the lightweight division. Gaethje is 18-2 and the 7th ranked lightweight in the UFC.
There is no love loss between the two. Vick acknowledged this opportunity on Twitter by saying “That punching bag Gaethje don’t want these problems.” Gaethje’s response to me via text this morning was “I don’t like him. I will find more pleasure beating him up than most.” It is sure to be another Fight of the Night candidate, which seems to be the case anytime Gaethje steps in the Octagon.
This fight will still be the Main Event UFC Fight Night 135. Gaethje is looking to end his two fight losing streak, while Vick is riding a four fight win streak.
Fight Night 135 will air the main card live on FS1. Check your local listings for channel information.
