Li Jingliang, who was originally scheduled to meet Michael Chiesa at UFC 287, has rescinded from the bout due to an injury. The bout was scheduled for April 8th. Multiple sources familiar with the matter stated Jingliang‘s withdrawal was due to an injury that may necessitate surgery. The boxer later announced the news on the Chinese social media app Douyin.
What was the track record of Li Jingliang and Michael Chiesa leading up to the fight?
Jingliang, popularly known as “The Leech,” was hoping to rebound from a split decision loss to Daniel Rodriguez in September 2021 at UFC 279. However, in his last six UFC fights, he has struggled to find consistency, alternating failures and successes.
Chiesa, on the other hand, was looking to end his two-fight losing streak.
Between December 2018 and January 2021, the American fighter had won four consecutive fights and was hoping to get back on track with a victory over Jingliang.
With Jingliang’s withdrawal, Chiesa is without a challenger, and it is unclear who will step forward to take his position. Chiesa will stay on the UFC 287 card for the time being, but the promotion has yet to name a replacement opponent for him.
This development is a setback for the UFC 287 event, which was already beleaguered by the COVID-19 epidemic. The event was initially scheduled for Las Vegas, but it was relocated to Miami-Dade Arena in Miami, Florida, reportedly due to stricter COVID-19 protocols in Nevada.
No fighter announced yet as a stand-in for Jingliang
Chiesa will stay on the UFC 287 card for the time being. However, the promotion is yet to name a replacement opponent for him. “Maverick’ will look to extend his win streak. The American will be looking forward to fighting with anyone UFC sets at this point.
Overall, the withdrawal of Li Jingliang from UFC 287 is a disappointing turn of events. Then again, the UFC has proven time and time again that it is capable of delivering exciting fights. Circumstances would hardly matter in this case. Fans of the sport will be waiting for word on Chiesa’s replacement. Eventually, the event will undoubtedly bring high-octane excitement as usual.
Who do you think will replace Jingliang?
