The UFC has set up its main event for May 30.
On Tuesday, Gilbert Burns announced on Twitter that a long talked-about fight against former welterweight champion Tyron Woodley is set. Burns specified that his bout agreement was signed. UFC broadcast partner ESPN, citing sources, later confirmed the matchup.
The May 30 event does not currently have a known location. No broadcast or streaming information has been released at this time.
The promotion has stated its desire to set up shop at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, but UFC president Dana White said if that can’t happen – the Nevada Athletic Commission has yet to reinstate combat sports during the coronavirus pandeimc – the plan is to host the event in Arizona, where stay-at-home orders have expired. Gov. Doug Ducey has given the OK for sports to return in that state without fans.
Woodley vs. Burns initially was planned to headline an event this Saturday, but that plan was scrapped in favor of May 30.
Woodley (19-4-1 MMA, 11-4-1 UFC) has not competed since he lost his welterweight title to current champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 235 in March 2019.
Prior to the global coronavirus pandemic, Woodley was scheduled to fight March 21 against Leon Edwards. However, after Edwards withdrew because of travel restrictions, the card was eventually canceled during fight week.
Burns (18-3 MMA, 11-3 UFC) was briefly linked as a potential replacement opponent for Woodley on March 21, but the fight was never finalized. Burns has won five consecutive fights, including three at his new weight class of 170. In his most recent outing at UFC on ESPN+ 28 in March, Burns finished Demian Maia with strikes in Round 1.
