UFC 310 suffers another blow: Fights update days before pay-per-view card

UFC 310, the final pay-per-view event of 2024, has been hit with multiple last-minute changes, leaving fans eager for updates. Scheduled for December 7 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, this event was set to feature some of the biggest names in MMA. However, with just days left, several changes to the fight card have raised concerns. Despite these setbacks, UFC 310 still promises thrilling matchups. Here’s everything you need to know about the event, what fights remain, and what fans can expect from the action-packed night.

Another Fight Pulled from UFC 310 Lineup

A major disappointment—the highly anticipated Martin Buday vs. Rizvan Kuniev matchup has been scrapped from UFC 310. Buday’s unexpected withdrawal left Kuniev without an opponent, and the UFC was unable to find a replacement in time. This marks the fifth change to the fight card, coming just days before the event. Fans had been excited to see this fight, but unfortunately, it’s no longer part of the event.

Main Event Overhaul: Belal Muhammad Forced Out

One of the most significant changes to UFC 310 is the main event. The originally planned welterweight title fight between champion Belal Muhammad and Shavkat Rakhmonov was set to headline the event, but Muhammad had to withdraw due to a severe bone infection. With the loss of this title bout, the UFC quickly pivoted, announcing that the new main event would feature Alexandre Pantoja defending his flyweight title against Kai Asakura, a former RIZIN champion. Asakura will be making his UFC debut, which adds an exciting dynamic to this title fight.

Despite the changes to the main event, Shavkat Rakhmonov will still be on the card, facing undefeated Ian Machado Garry in a five-round co-main event. Both fighters are rising stars in the welterweight division, and their fight promises to be a high-stakes showdown for the future of the division.

Exciting Matchups Still on the UFC 310 Card

Even with the changes, UFC 310 still offers a stacked lineup with some incredible matchups. Fans can expect to see an exciting mix of experienced fighters and rising talent, making this a must-watch event. Here’s a look at the key bouts:

• Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura (Flyweight Title Fight): The flyweight title will be on the line as Pantoja defends against Asakura, who enters the UFC with a strong reputation from RIZIN. This fight has high stakes, and fans are eager to see how Asakura performs on the UFC stage.
• Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Machado Garry: Two undefeated welterweights square off in what could be a breakout fight for one of these rising stars. Both Rakhmonov and Garry have dominated in their careers so far, making this a highly anticipated matchup.
• Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov: A heavyweight battle between two of the top contenders in the division. Gane and Volkov are both skilled strikers, promising an exciting and fast-paced contest.
• Bryce Mitchell vs. Kron Gracie: A grappling-heavy clash between Mitchell and Gracie. Both are known for their ground games, making this a stylistic battle that will likely play out on the mat.
• Nate Landwehr vs. Doo Ho Choi: A featherweight stand-up battle between two aggressive fighters known for their striking. This matchup is expected to deliver plenty of action and explosive exchanges.

Despite the recent changes, UFC 310 remains one of the most exciting cards of the year, with plenty of high-stakes matchups across multiple divisions.

Preliminary Card Adds Depth to UFC 310

The preliminary card, which kicks off at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN2, will feature additional exciting matchups. Although no further changes have been announced for the prelims, fans can expect competitive bouts as fighters try to make a name for themselves on the UFC’s biggest stage. These undercard fights will provide an extra layer of excitement as several rising stars look to make their mark before the main event.

What’s Next for the UFC 310 Fight Card?

As UFC 310 approaches, fans are hoping for no more disruptions to the lineup. While the recent changes have certainly shaken things up, the event still has the potential to deliver memorable moments and exciting fights. With a flyweight title on the line, an undefeated welterweight showdown, and a highly competitive heavyweight clash, UFC 310 promises to deliver thrilling action for fans.

UFC 310 may have faced some setbacks, but it’s shaping up to be an event that fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re tuning in for the title fights, the undefeated prospects, or the potential for surprises, UFC 310 will have something for every fight fan.

Be sure to catch the action live from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on December 7 or stream it on ESPN+ PPV!