Report: Islam Makhachev Off UFC Vegas 14, RDA Responds

UFC Vegas 14 has taken a big hit, just days out from the November 14th card, as it’s being reported that Islam Makhachev has withdrawn.

Rafael dos Anjos responds to news of Makhachev’s withdrawal 

Makhachev, who is one of Khabib Nurmagomedov’s teammates, was supposed to face Rafael dos Anjos in the main-event of next Saturday’s event. But, ESPN recently reported that according to sources, Makhachev has been forced out due to an undisclosed injury.

You may recall that the lightweights were originally scheduled to fight on October 24th. But, dos Anjos tested positive for COVID-19 and the bout was moved.

The UFC is reportedly looking for a new opponent for dos Anjos, who upon hearing the news of Makhachev’s withdrawal, tweeted this.

I wish @MAKHACHEVMMA
a speed recovery. Looking for a new partner to dance. Looks like @MikeChandlerMMA is ready to go. Your move!

It will be interesting to see if the UFC is able to find a new opponent for RDA, on this short of notice. It would be surprising if Michael Chandler agreed to do so, given that RDA is no longer ranked in the top 15 (as he’s just returning to lightweight after a lengthy run at welterweight).

UFC Vegas 14 line-up

Here is the line-up for Saturday’s card as it stands right now (as this is being written). As you can see, none of the other fights could realistically serve as a new main event, in terms of household names. 

Main Card (ESPN+, 7 p.m. ET)

Abdul Razak Alhassan vs. Khaos Williams
Julian Marquez vs. Saparbek Safarov
Eryk Anders vs. Antonio Arroyo

Preliminary Card (ESPN+, 4 p.m. ET)

Kay Hansen vs. Cory McKenna
Miranda Granger vs. Ashley Yoder
Alex Morono vs. Rhys McKee
Louis Smolka vs. Jose Quinonez
Randa Markos vs. Kanako Murata
Geraldo de Freitas vs. Tony Gravely
Don’Tale Mayes vs. Roque Martinez