Josh Barnett has a new opponent at Metamoris VI.
The UFC heavyweight will take on Ryron Gracie, son of UFC co-founder Rorion Gracie, in an openweight grappling match Saturday, Metamoris announced Wednesday. Barnett’s original opponent Roberto “Cyborg” Abreu pulled out due to an injury.
Barnett is the organization’s heavyweight champion. His bout with Abreu was slated to be the main event. Retired UFC star Chael Sonnen will meet Renato Sobral in the co-headliner. Metamoris will air live on internet pay-per-view Saturday, but will not be open to the public. Also on the card, UFC veteran Joe Lauzon will take on Dillon Danis.
Barnett is currently on sabbatical from the UFC. He has not fought since falling to Travis Browne in December 2013. “The Warmaster” is targeting a return in the fall after filming a movie with Michael Jai White over the summer.
Gracie is the oldest son of Rorion Gracie and eldest grandson of master Helio Gracie. He currently stars in the popular online “Gracie Breakdown” series with his brother Rener. Ryron Gracie participated in UFC 1 in 1993 as a 12-year-old — wiping down the mats after each fight.