Bogdan Guskov is set to remain on next weekend's UFC card after losing his original opponent one week out from fight night.
The light heavyweight contender was originally set for a big match-up with the dynamic Brazilian striker and 205-pound stalwart, Johnny Walker.
Walker announced on social media yesterday that he had been forced to withdraw from the contest due to an undisclosed injury that he had suffered in training.
With just one week to go until UFC 311 arrives at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, it remained unclear at the time whether this would also force Guskov off the card.
Fortunately, the promotion acted quickly to secure a replacement opponent who has a huge opportunity on his hands.
MMA Mania's Alex Behunin has since reported that instead of fighting the #10-ranked contender in the division, Guskov will now face a UFC newcomer.
Billy Elekana will step in on short notice to make his UFC debut with a three-fight win streak under his belt.
The 29-year old earned two wins competing under the PFL banner in 2023 with his latest outing being a quick knockout over Jureall Simmons at LXF 18 last July.
Having made his pro debut in 2021, he has finished four of his seven wins with three knockouts and one submission.
Guskov lost his UFC debut against Volkan Oezdemir in September of 2023 where he was submitted in the first round.
Since then, the fighter from Uzbekistan has proven himself to be a threat in this division by producing consecutive finishes against Zac Pauga and Ryan Spann.
Facing a UFC debutant may not have been the fight that he was hoping or training for but it does give the 32-year old an opportunity to continue building his momentum at light heavyweight.
