The UFC is actively looking for two replacement fighters to step in on short notice for next weekend’s card in Brooklyn, N.Y.
Both John Lineker and Ion Cutelaba (14-3, 1 NC) have been forced to withdraw from their respective fights next weekend, multiple sources confirmed to ESPN.
Lineker, who is dealing with a rib injury, was scheduled to fight Cory Sandhagen in bantamweight action, while light heavyweight Cutelaba, whose reasons for withdrawing are unknown at this time, was set to fight Glover Teixeira.
Lineker was originally supposed to fight former champion Dominick Cruz this month but was booked against Sandhagen once Cruz pulled out due to an injured shoulder. Now he won’t be fighting anyone.
According to sources, the UFC is hoping to fill both slots with new opponents, however, they have yet to find either replacement yet. If they don’t, Teixeira and/or Sandhagen will be removed from the card.
The event, which will take place at Barclays Center, will be headlined by Henry Cejudo vs. TJ Dillashaw for the UFC flyweight title.