UFC

Guram Kutateladze’s replacement revealed – UFC newcomer steps in against Thiago Moises

Published

January 9, 2023

UFC 283 Melquizael Costa Frontkick online

Melquizael Costa will clash with Thiago Moises at UFC 283. Photo via Melquizael Costa

Lightweight Thiago Moises was supposed to face Swedish-Georgian lightweight prospect Guram Kutateladze at UFC 283. However, as Kutateladze suffered an Staph infection that forced him out of the fight, Moises stood without an opponent for January 21.

Now, Melquizael Costa has stepped in on short notice to replace “The Georgian Viking” in his promotional debut. MMA Fighting was first to report the news of the matchup.

The Brazilian 26-year-old Costa has won seven of his past eight bouts, while his countryman Moises comes from a submission win against Christos Giagos in June.

Current lineup for UFC 283

UFC 283 takes place January 21 at Jeunesse Arena in Rio de Janeiro and is headlined by a light heavyweight title fight between former champion Glover Teixeira and No. 7 ranked Jamahal Hill.

The co-main event features a highly anticipated flyweight title fight between Deiveson Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno. This will be the rivals fourth fight in just two years.

Main card