Rafael dos Anjos is out of his UFC 196 title fight with Conor McGregor in 11 days time.
According to reports, the Brazilian has a broken foot.
This is a remarkably similar situation to what McGregor went through back in July when Jose Aldo pulled out with a rib injury. Back then, Chad Mendes stepped in on 12 days notice to fight for the interim featherweight title.
Holly Holm vs Miesha Tate is the co-main event for UFC 196, a fight which would likely be unable to carry a pay-per-view event on its own.
Alternatives have already emerged as opponents for McGregor.
According to Ariel Helwani of MMA Fighting, Donald 'Cowboy' Cerrone, who just this weekend made his debut at welterweight, is interested in taking the fight.
Spoke to Cerrone’s mgmt team this morning. They are interested in taking the fight. He’s on the shortlist, for sure.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) February 23, 2016
Brandon Gibson, a coach at Cerrone's gym, tweeted that the 32-year-old American would certainly be up for the fight.
I know a Cowboy who will fight anyone, anywhere at anytime. #Huckleberry
— Brandon Gibson (@SixGunGibson) February 23, 2016
Another possible opponent is Nate Diaz.
Discussed, as well. https://t.co/qgZVBAvwKI
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) February 23, 2016
Frankie Edgar has also been mentioned. However, the 34-year-old American is injured.
If you’re clamoring for Edgar, he’s unavailable, I’m told. Dealing w/ an injury. There aren’t a ton of options. You can probably guess em.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) February 23, 2016
Picture credit: Ramsey Cardy / SPORTSFILE
