10 Things You Need To Know Ahead Of UFC 213
7. The Original Card Has Been Badly Affected By Injury
UFC 200 just seemed destined to fail with everything that fell apart. While this year's even doesn't seem nearly as cursed, it hasn't had its problems to seek.
The very first fight booked for UFC 213 was Cody Garbrandt vs. TJ Dillashaw for the bantamweight strap. As opposing coaches on The Ultimate Fighter with an already built in back story, this was highly anticipated. Unfortunately, a back issue forced Garbrandt out.
Robbie Lawler's fight with Donald Cerrone fell out just last week as Cerrone has an staph infection. It looks like it'll be rescheduled for the stacked UFC 214. This was briefly booked for UFC 205, but Lawler decided he needed more time off. Hopefully third time will be the charm in Anaheim later this month. Daniel Omielanczuk vs. Curtis Blaydes has been moved to the main card to cover it, and it's fair to say it doesn't make up for the loss.
With such short notice, UFC had to fill out the prelims with a few late signings, meaning the opening two bouts of the night will be between fighters making their UFC debut.