Fast-rising featherweight Kron Gracie is expected to meet veteran Cub Swanson at UFC on ESPN+ 19.
ESPN.com reported the matchup is in the process of being finalized for the Oct. 12 event, which takes place at a venue to be determined. Joanna Jedrzejczyk vs. Michelle Waterson is also expected on the card.
The undefeated Gracie, 30, had been considered for a bout with Andre Fili, multiple people with knowledge of negotiations told MMA Junkie. Fili had called for a showdown with the undefeated submission specialist, but the promotion ultimately chose Swanson.
Gracie (5-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC), the son of MMA legend Rickson Gracie, wowed in his octagon debut in February with a first-round submission of veteran Alex Caceres at UFC on ESPN 1. Prior to that, he racked up a 4-0 record with an extended stint in Rizin FF.
Swanson, 35, is on the longest skid of his professional career, having lost his past four bouts. In his most recent appearance, he dropped a split decision against Shane Burgos at UFC on ESPN+ 9.
After toying with the idea of retirement, Swanson (25-11 MMA, 10-7 UFC) re-signed with the UFC this past August. His most recent win came at UFC Fight Night 108 with a decision over Artem Lobov.
For more on UFC on ESPN+ 19, check out the UFC Schedule.
