Gregory Rodrigues on the lookout for new opponent as Brad Tavares is reportedly out of UFC 283 matchup
Gregory Rodrigues will not be facing Brad Tavares in their scheduled bout at UFC 283 since Tavares was forced to pull out of the contest after allegedly suffering an unspecified injury. The bout was originally slated for the preliminary card but 'Robocop' will now be looking for a replacement opponent.
The Brazilian confirmed the news in a now-deleted tweet, expressing his disappointment at the matchup not materializing. The unranked middleweight wrote:
"Guys, Brad is out! That is sucks! Spend a lot of money and energy in this camp. I was really excited to fight in my country after 5 years! I'm waiting for UFC to get another opponent. Unfortunately they are not accepting. Why?"
Gregory Rodrigues is on a two-fight win streak with six wins in his last seven outings. He last faced Chidi Njokuani in an absolute slugfest that saw the 30-year-old secure a second-round knockout and their fight won the Fight of the Night bonus.
While there is no official confirmation of a replacement opponent for Rodrigues yet, the Brazilian might already have some eager volunteers. The No.14-ranked middleweight contender, Chris Curtis, seemingly raised his hand to be 'Robocop's next opponent at UFC 283 with a GIF-tweet.
Read the tweet below:
Waiting on my phone to ring like... https://t.co/yP261juMaF
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When Gregory Rodrigues knocked out Chidi Njokuani despite suffering a nasty cut on his forehead
Gregory Rodrigues faced Chidi Njokuani at UFC Vegas 60 in September and the 30-year-old put on a stunning display of athletic tenacity as he managed to secure a second-round knockout victory despite having his forehead gashed open.
Rodrigues was struck by a brutal knee from Njokuani in the very first round, exposing the Supratrochlear artery. However, 'Robocop' rallied like a champion to brush it off and win the bout.
Check out the post below:
In a post-fight press conference, Gregory Rodrigues credited his corner for giving him the extra push he needed to win:
"I remember, I know I was dizzy... But man, like I said, I want to say thank you for my corners bro. My trainers, those guys are amazing, they did an amazing job... They started talking with me and I was like no no, let me calm down and I started listening, saying move the legs and stuff like that... And then I think, I need to start something. I need to start like throw my bombs."
Watch the full interview below: