Diaz vs Ferguson headlines UFC 279 after Chimaev misses weight

There were major shake-ups on the UFC 279 fight card with Nate Diaz taking on Tony Ferguson instead in the main event.

Khamzat Chimaev, Diaz's original opponent, arrived at the weight-ins at 178.5 pounds, 7.5 pounds over the welterweight non-title limit.

With Diaz refusing to fight an overweight opponent, the bout was cancelled.

Things will be quite different but it sure gets pretty interesting!?Check out the face-offs of the NEW headliners after the massive shakeup just one day before the fights!??? #UFC279 | ???? ?? ???????? | Live Tomorrow pic.twitter.com/btKc5e42Nd
— UFC_Asia (@UFC_Asia) September 10, 2022

"Due to recommendation from the UFC medical team, Chimaev was advised to stop cutting weight due to weight management issues.

"Chimaev will move up to a catchweight bout of 180 lbs and face Kevin Holland in the new five-round co-main event," read an official statement.

Li Jingliang and Daniel Rodriguez, who were supposed to face Ferguson and Holland respectively, were matched up for a catchweight fight.

South East Asia! Let's do this!?The important #UFC279 Main Card start times are here! Watch it LIVE wherever you are!??? #UFC279 | ???? ?? ???????? | SEP 11 pic.twitter.com/e8OYOnSz54
— UFC_Asia (@UFC_Asia) September 10, 2022