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

Israeli mixed martial artist Ilai Barzilai, holding an impressive 8-1 record, is reportedly close to making his UFC debut. Barzilai recently won at a Gordons event at Menora Mivtachim Arena and has been on the UFC's radar for some time. The opportunity arose after Cody Steels withdrew from a scheduled lightweight bout against Gage Young at the UFC Fight Night event in Sacramento on August 22, leaving the organization searching for a replacement fighter.

Barzilai has been notified to be ready as a potential substitute and is currently in a state of preparedness alongside two other fighters, awaiting the official go-ahead to compete in California. The fight would be in the lightweight division, Barzilai's usual weight class throughout his career.

If confirmed, Barzilai would become the first Israeli fighter to compete in the UFC since Lior Levy and Yan Ashmouz departed the organization. Other Israeli fighters, including Moshe Eldi and Stav Koren, are also positioned to enter the UFC, holding belts in organizations affiliated with UFC's Fight Pass. Barzilai's camp confirmed that the UFC has checked his readiness, and he is eagerly awaiting the green light to step into the octagon.