David Yeazell-Imagn Images

UFC 319 Hit by Fight Cancellations

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Robert LaMar | Last updated Aug 15, 2025 12:07 PM ET

This Saturday, the UFC returns to Chicago for UFC 319. Headlined by a middleweight title clash between champion Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. In the co-main event, top featherweight contenders Lerone Murphy and Aaron Pico battle for a potential title shot.

The main card also features fan favorite Michael “Venom” Page vs. Jared Cannonier, and rising star Carlos Prates. Concerns over Chimaev’s health have loomed in the buildup, but after adjustments to his training camp, the unbeaten contender is expected to make it to fight night.

However, the card has suffered late setbacks. The lightweight bout between King Green and Diego Ferreira is off due to a Green injury, and the debut clash between Rodrigo Sezinando and Daniil Donchenko has also been scrapped. Both debutants will be rebooked for a later date.

To soften the blow, the UFC has added a last minute fight. Susurkaev Baisangur, fresh off a flawless win on Dana White’s Contender Series this past Tuesday, will make his debut alongside teammate Chimaev.

#UFC319 has lost two bouts three days out from the event:

– Bobby Green withdrew due to injury and his fight vs. Diego Ferreira is off (first rep. @ColeShelton91)

– Rodrigo Sezinando withdrew due to injury and his #TUF33 final vs. Daniil Donachenko is off (first rep.… pic.twitter.com/j9DUzWcrHh

— Nolan King (@mma_kings) August 14, 2025

Fan favorite to help carry the card?

With multiple cancellations, the UFC is going to really depend on a very strong showing by Michael “Venom” Page. Venom is a fan favorite. Who UFC fans would love to rally behind. His return to the octagon is even more welcomed. As his fight can be not only his return to establishing himself as a contender which could lead to the road of a title shot. But also helping to carry this card that is getting weaker by the day.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: