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Reasons for Chikadze’s removal are unknown.
One of the more compelling preliminary card matchups on this Saturday’s UFC Vegas 8 card is now off the table.
MMA Fighting reported on Tuesday that featherweight Giga Chikadze is out of his fight with Alex Caceres. Initially, Kevin Croom was chosen to be the replacement but now ESPN’s Marc Raimondi says that’s off the table.
Chikadze (10-2) is a former kickboxing standout who holds a 3-0 record in the UFC. He’s coming off an entertaining unanimous decision win over late replacement Irwin Rivera, but he’s still seeking his first UFC finish. Evidently he’ll have to wait a little longer for that opportunity.
Caceres (16-12, 1 NC) recently handed young prospect Chase Hooper his first career defeat with a clear-cut unanimous decision at UFC 250. “Bruce Leeroy” has had his ups and downs throughout his MMA career but at this point he’s at least an established gatekeeper at 145 lbs.
UFC Vegas 8 features a three-round light heavyweight main event between Anthony Smith and Aleksandar Rakic. In the co-main, former welterweight champion Robbie Lawler comes in on short notice to battle Neil Magny.