With Belal Muhammad out of UFC 310 due to a bone infection, the UFC’s December event has lost its main attraction. Fans were set to watch Muhammad defend his welterweight title, but his social media announcement left the UFC 310 main event without a headliner. As the organization scrambles to find a new main event, let’s explore the top replacement fights that could keep the energy high for the Las Vegas showdown.
Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev
When the UFC needs short-notice fighters, Alex Pereira is a proven choice. Known for his striking skills and high-profile victories, Pereira currently holds the light heavyweight title. He’s taken on top opponents like Jiří Procházka and Khalil Rountree Jr., showing he can rise to any challenge.
Magomed Ankalaev, the No. 1 contender in the division, could be an ideal opponent for Pereira. Ankalaev recently secured a win over Aleksandar Rakic and has the skills to make this an intense and evenly-matched bout. Adding Pereira vs. Ankalaev to UFC 310 would give fans the big-name showdown they’re craving and keep the momentum of the event going strong.
Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura
An easier option might be to elevate the scheduled co-main event between Alexandre Pantoja and Kai Asakura. Pantoja, the flyweight champion, is defending his title against Asakura, a former Rizin bantamweight champion making his UFC debut. Known for his powerful striking, Asakura is a tough opponent, and Pantoja’s two title defenses make him a serious competitor in the division.
Moving Pantoja vs. Asakura to the main event slot would keep the UFC 310 lineup largely intact. Though it may not be the draw for casual fans, it’s still a high-quality matchup for the hardcore MMA audience and could deliver an intense, technical fight.
Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Machado Garry
With Muhammad out, Shavkat Rakhmonov—who was scheduled to face him – could still take the main event spotlight. Rakhmonov, an unbeaten fighter with 18 straight finishes, is a rising star in the welterweight division. An ideal matchup would be with Ian Machado Garry, who’s been vocal about his interest in fighting Rakhmonov.
Garry, ranked No. 7 in the welterweight division, remains undefeated and brings plenty of charisma to the cage. His confidence and trash talk could create significant pre-fight hype, making Rakhmonov vs. Garry an exciting replacement for the UFC 310 main event. This bout would be a fresh and dynamic pairing, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus Du Plessis
For those craving an Internet-breaking event, a fight between Khamzat Chimaev and Dricus Du Plessis would be a thrilling addition to the card. Chimaev’s recent win over Robert Whittaker showcased his elite grappling, while Du Plessis has had an impressive run, with victories over Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland.
Although securing this fight would be challenging, especially with both fighters’ current schedules, it would add immense hype to UFC 310. If Du Plessis accepts, this matchup promises the kind of intensity fans love.
Which fight will headline UFC 310?
UFC 310 faces a tough decision in finding a replacement main event. Each option offers unique appeal – from maintaining the lineup with Pantoja vs. Asakura to aiming for a massive draw with Chimaev vs. Du Plessis. No matter the choice, these replacement fights ensure fans will enjoy a thrilling night in Las Vegas.
