Dana White's favorite newcomer accepts UFC 319 fight on 3 days’ notice

Originally posted on MMA on SI | By Mathew Riddle | Last updated Aug 13, 2025 6:16 PM ET

Chris Unger-Zuffa LLC

UFC 319 --- A new fight is reportedly headed to the Chicago-based PPV featuring the middleweight title clash between Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev.

There was already much to look forward to, with the obvious title fight, and the debut of former Bellator standout Aaron Pico, taking on 16-0 Lerone Murphy. Fans are also privy to the Octagon returns of Kai Asakura and Michael 'Venom' Page, among others.

According to a report from Zaclikesmma on X, with corroboration from MMA media members James Lynch, Caposa, and others, DWCS Season 9 contract winner Baysangur Susurkaev will make his UFC debut this weekend at UFC 319.

FIGHT NEWS

After taking no damage in his #DWCS fight last night, Baysangur Susurkaev will be making his @UFC DEBUT...

THIS SATURDAY!!!

When he faces @CFFCMMA Welterweight Champion, Eric Nolan (@nightimenolan) at #UFC319 pic.twitter.com/faHhxdpBFn
— Zac (@zaclikesmma) August 13, 2025

Report: Brand new UFC signee Baysangur Susurkaev to debut on three days' notice

Susurkaev knocked out Murtaza Talha with a front kick to the stomach on Tuesday, and taking no damage, appears to be fighting again just four days later. According to Zac, Susurkaev will take on CFFC MMA welterweight champion Eric Nolan, a prolific finisher with six finishes in eight wins.

Fellow Chechen fighter and UFC 319 co-headliner Chimaev also confirmed Susurkaev's presence on the card during an interview with Spinnin Backfist.

"He's gonna fight here," Chimaev said. "... I spoke with him yesterday and he is ready for it."

Khamzat Chimzev tells us that Baysangur Susurkaev will be fighting on the #UFC319 card with him.

Just 4 days after his DWCS win.

"I spoke with him yesterday and he is ready for it. pic.twitter.com/aPJgMbgbLM
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) August 13, 2025

Dana White was blown away by Baysangur Susurkaev on the Contender Series

After scoring the first knockout of the season this week, White hollered Susurkaev from the cage side, remarking, "You saved my Tuesday." Susurkaev was one of two fighters to be awarded a contract, where White continued to heap praise on the prospect.

"I haven't been this excited about a guy in a very long time," White said. "I have very high hopes for you. Welcome to the UFC and thank you for saving episode one of the Contender Series."

"Bienvenido a UFC" dice Dana White a Baysangur Susurkaev #DWCS pic.twitter.com/zKtoUYmh1z
— UFC Español (@UFCEspanol) August 13, 2025

Updated UFC 319 card, incoming cancellation possible?

With this report, UFC 319 could be up to fifteen fights, which is plenty for a PPV. This could indicate that one or more fights has fallen through, and the promotion is yet to break the news. Best case scenario, no fights have been cancelled and the UFC 319 broadcast will have superb pacing.