UFC Watch: Ilai Barzilai’s Fight Canceled

It appears that LFA was unable to find a replacement opponent for the Israeli fighter, and his camp is now considering options. Sport 5 Published: 10.06.26, 17:56

"We are considering the options." Barzilai (LFA) | Photo: Sport 5

After his original opponent dropped out because of a skin infection and following a search for a new opponent, it now appears that Ilai Barzilai’s fight has been canceled again, and he will not compete at LFA 235 in a week and a half. As recalled, Barzilai’s bout was supposed to be the main event.

The major American organization worked to find a last-minute replacement for the Israeli’s previous opponent, Landry Ward, but the various fighters offered the fight declined, among other reasons because of the short notice.

The organization is now aiming to provide Barzilai with an alternate fight, but it is still not known when such a bout will take place, and the organization has also not yet announced the cancellation of the matchup.

In a conversation with Sport Channel, the Israeli fighter expressed disappointment over the latest cancellation, after his title fight in the UWC organization was also canceled a few months ago: "I was very disappointed with the organization’s conduct, but I won’t let it affect me. I am close to my peak, and I haven’t had a way to show it yet. I have improved since my last fight and I am waiting to get back into the cage. All my opponents know that I belong in the UFC."

Now, those in Dana White’s organization are aware of Barzilai’s situation, and as recalled, they have been following him for some time and were waiting for him to step into the cage. Barzilai’s camp will check the options with the UFC: "They are aware of the situation where everyone is pulling out of fights with Ilai. The options with the organization are being examined after the latest cancellation."

As recalled, Barzilai has not fought since the first loss of his career back in August 2025, when he suffered a controversial judges’ decision defeat to Richie Miranda in a fight for the LFA championship belt. He holds a professional record of 7-1, with 4 of his 7 wins coming by knockout. MM4 Found a language error?