Francis Ngannou and Junio dos Santos will have one less week to prepare for their clash of top-contenders.
Francis Ngannou and Junior dos Santos are beefing up UFC Minneapolis.
The clash of heavyweight top-contenders is being moved from UFC 239 on July 6 to UFC Minneapolis on June 29, sources tell ESPN. Ngannou (13-3) is riding a two-fight winning streak with first-round knockouts of Cain Velsaquez and Curtis Blaydes. Dos Santos (21-5) has won three consecutive bouts, most recently beating Derrick Lewis and Tai Tuivasa via second-round TKO.
UFC Minneapolis was originally headlined by welterweights Tyron Woodley and Robbie Lawler. An injury forced Woodley off the card and the promotion was reportedly unable to find a replacement to fight Lawler. Ngannou vs. dos Santos will likely serve as the card’s main event, although new bout agreements have not yet been signed.
The winner of Ngannou vs. dos Santos will likely be cemented as the most-deserving challenger for the UFC heavyweight championship. Ngannou is currently ranked second in the division and dos Santos is ranked third. Heavyweight titleholder Daniel Cormier will defend his title in a rematch against Stipe Miocic at UFC 241.
UFC Minneapolis takes place at the Target Center on June 29. Other notable bouts include Demian Maia vs. Anthony Rocco Martin and Jussier Formiga vs. Joseph Benavidez.