Several modifications are set to occur on the UFC Vegas 86 card this upcoming weekend.
Recently, the UFC revealed that there have been changes to two scheduled bouts. Melsik Baghdasaryan will no longer be facing off against Hyder Amil in the featherweight division, and Albert Duraev is unable to compete in his middleweight bout against Robert Bryczek due to visa complications. In their place, Fernie Garcia will be replacing the injured Baghdasaryan, while Ihor Potieria steps in for Duraev.
Garcia (10-4) made his UFC debut in 2022 after participating in the Contender Series, yet he has faced difficulties in securing a victory in the octagon, losing all three of his previous fights. Amil, another Contender Series alum, secured a UFC contract following his appearance on the show last year and is gearing up for his UFC debut.
Similarly, Potieria (19-5) earned his spot in the UFC in 2022 after an impressive showing on the Contender Series, but has encountered setbacks within the promotion. With a record of 1-3 in the UFC, Potieria has suffered three knockout losses. On the other hand, Bryczek will be making his first UFC appearance.
UFC Vegas 86 is scheduled to take place this Saturday at the UFC Apex, featuring a headline middleweight clash between Jack Hermansson and Joe Pyfer.