Israeli MMA Fighter Ilai Barzilai Poised for UFC Debut Amid Fight Cancellation

Israeli mixed martial artist Ilai Barzilai, who holds an impressive 8-1 record, is reportedly close to making his UFC debut. Barzilai recently won at the Gordons event at Menora Mivtachim Arena and has been on the UFC's radar for some time. The opportunity arose after Cody Steel withdrew from a scheduled lightweight bout against Gage Young at the UFC Fight Night event in Sacramento on August 22. The UFC is now seeking a replacement fighter, and Barzilai has been notified to be ready for a potential call-up.

Barzilai's team confirmed that the UFC has checked his readiness and that he is on standby along with two other fighters, awaiting the green light to compete in California. Barzilai typically fights in the lightweight division, which aligns with the canceled bout's weight class. If he accepts the fight, he would become the first Israeli to compete in the UFC since the departures of Lior Levy and Yan Ashmouz.

In addition to Barzilai, other Israeli fighters such as Moshe Eldi and Stav Koren are also in strong positions to join the UFC, holding belts in organizations affiliated with UFC's Fight Pass. This development marks a significant moment for Israeli MMA athletes aiming to break into the world's premier fighting organization.