The previously scheduled matchup between Kyle Daukaus and Roman Dolidze is no longer a part of the UFC Fight Night 197 lineup.
The fight was scrapped Wednesday after the promotion removed Doldize (9-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC) due to COVID-19 protocols. As a result of the limited timeline, the promotion was unable to locate a replacement to fight Daukaus (10-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC). The event will proceed with 11 bouts.
A person with knowledge of the situation confirmed the cancellation Wednesday to MMA Junkie after an initial report by MMA Fighting but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement.
UFC Fight Night 197 takes place Saturday at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The card airs on ESPN+.
Daukaus was originally supposed to fight Kevin Holland in a rematch of their Oct. 2 showdown that ended after an accidental clash of heads was deemed via video replay to have lead to the finish. However, Holland withdrew due to injury and in stepped Doldize.
Dolidze will have to wait a little longer to fight for his second victory in a row. Following his lone UFC loss to date against Trevin Giles in March, Doldize bounced back in June when he defeated Laureano Staropoli via unanimous decision.
With the addition, the UFC Fight Night 197 lineup includes:
- Max Holloway vs. Yair Rodriguez
- Marcos Rogerio de Lima vs. Ben Rothwell
- Leah Letson vs. Felicia Spencer
- Julio Arce vs. Song Yadong
- Joel Alvarez vs. Thiago Moises
- Cynthia Calvillo vs. Andrea Lee
- Miguel Baeza vs. Khaos Williams
- Collin Anglin vs. Sean Woodson
- Cortney Casey vs. Liana Jojua
- Rafael Alves vs. Marc Diakiese
- Da Un Jung vs. Kennedy Nzechukwu
