UFC 287 fight could not be saved due to visa issues and weight cut problems, says Michael Chiesa

Michael Chiesa is officially no longer a part of the UFC 287 card, scheduled for this weekend at the Miami-Dade arena.

Chiesa was originally slated to face Chinese standout Li Jingliang, who could not make it due to a spine injury that could even require surgery. While Chiesa was left without and opponent, the UFC reportedly made attempts to find a short notice replacement for the April 8 card.

However, Chiesa announced last night that the fight has now officially fallen through after coming across various obstacles. While 'Maverick' didn't take any names, he claims potential replacement fighters encountered weight cutting and visa issues.

Chiesa also stated that crowd favorite Niko Price was probably ready to go, but the UFC had other plans for 'Hybrid'. 'Maverick' said on The MMA Hour:

“I’m not going to name names of the guys who were offered who turned it down, because it was a matter of visa issues and some guys not being able to make weight. I’m not that type of guy to go out there and blast, like, ‘So-and-so turned it down.’ Look, I’m a tough out for anybody at 170 pounds, especially if you only have a couple of weeks to prepare."

He added:

"Niko Price was lobbying hard to get the fight, so I want to give him his flowers. That guy was ready and willing to jump in, but I think the UFC had other plans for him.”

Catch Michael Chiesa's comments below:

Chiesa also mentioned Gunnar Nelson as a potential opponent for his next outing.

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Kevin Lee has accused Michael Chiesa of ducking him for UFC 287

Currently on a two-fight skid, Michael Chiesa hasn't fought since November 2021, having been majorly focused on UFC analyst duties. While 'Maverick' will certainly not be happy about his return fight falling through, he allegedly turned down a short notice replacement.

Kevin Lee, who has a submission win over Chiesa, seemingly offered to step in.

Lee, who recently returned to the UFC, has accused Chiesa of turning him down as Li Jingliang's replacement for UFC 287. 'The MoTown Phenom' recently wrote on Instagram:

"I got a call a week ago that Mike Chiesa’s opponent pulled out with injury for next weeks #UFC287 in Miami. I accepted the fight on short notice I’m ready to go. But I got word today that Chiesa said no to our rematch. I no longer really care about money, rankings or popularity contests I wanted to put on a show for the the world. Looks like I’m gonna have to watch from the crowd with everyone else."