Conor McGregor’s absence at UFC 303 only caused short-lived sadness among fight fans. Dana White announced Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka as the new main event. This was the second time Pereira and Prochazka stepped up to save the PPV.
When Jon Jones pulled out of his scheduled fight against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295, Pereira and Prochazka became the main event. With Conor McGregor injured, Dana White knew who to call to save the day.
Alex Pereira has a message for Conor McGregor
Pereira and Prochazka saved UFC 303. Dana White had predicted a $20 million plus live gate for the event. The Brazilian revealed the story behind the making of the fight on his official YouTube channel. He also sent a message to Conor McGregor, who has not yet disclosed the nature and gravity of the injury.
“Connor McGregor got hurt. I hope it’s nothing serious that he can recover and come back fast,” said Pereira. “Yesterday, I had a call from my manager, Ed. They want me to do the main fight on the card. I gave my proposition. My manager called me and came with the big news that everything was good,” Pereira added.
Pereira and Prochazka’s last Octagon appearance was on UFC 300. Prochazka fought in the prelims, defeating Aleksandar Rakic via second-round TKO. In the main event, Pereira knocked out Jamahal Hill in the first round with his signature left hook. Prochazka had called out for a rematch after the victory, though Pereira had set his sights on Magomed Ankalaev.
The Ankalaev vs. Pereira matchup never came to fruition, so Pereira vs. Prochazka II was the next best matchup. However, Pereira expected a spot at UFC 306. When McGregor pulled out, the UFC had no option but to headline the PPV. Nonetheless, what the Brazilian will do against Prochazka remains to be seen on short notice.
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Also Read: Is Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler Rescheduled for UFC 306?
