UFC Waits as Ilai Barzilai's Fight Is Canceled

It appears that LFA has not found a replacement opponent for the Israeli fighter, and his camp is examining options, Sport 5 reported on 10.06.26 at 17:56.

After his original opponent withdrew from the fight because of a skin infection, and after attempts to find 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 fight was supposed to be the main event. The major American organization made efforts to find a short-notice replacement for the Israeli's previous opponent, Landry Ward, but the various fighters who were offered the bout declined, among other reasons because of the short notice.

The organization is now aiming to give Barzilai a replacement fight, but it is not yet 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 the Sports Channel, the Israeli fighter expressed disappointment over the latest cancellation, after a title fight of his in the UWC organization was 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 chance to show it yet. I have improved since my last fight and I am waiting to get back in the cage. All my opponents know that I belong in the UFC."

Now, Dana White's organization is aware of Barzilai's situation, and as recalled, they have been following him for some time and were waiting for him to enter the cage. Barzilai's camp will check the options with the UFC: "They are aware of the situation that everyone is withdrawing from 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 loss to Richie Miranda in a fight for the LFA championship belt. He has a professional record of 7-1, with 4 of his 7 wins coming by knockout. MM4 found a language error?