Which Fight At UFC Vegas 8 Has Been Altered?

By Fight Sports Aug 26, 2020 Last updated Aug 26, 2020

A newcomer to the UFC will look to take advantage of a last-minute opportunity.

MMA Fighting and MMA DNA were the first to report that Giga Chikadze is out of his bout against Alex Caceres. IIt is being reported that Chikadze tested positive for COVID-19. Taking his place at UFC on ESPN+ 33 will be Kevin Croom.

Croom (21-12) made his professional debut in 2009. The 33-year-old, known as “The Hard-Hitting Hillbilly”, has fought for Titan FC, Bellator, TTP, CTP, Shamrock FC, and LFA. His last bout was a unanimous decision win against Anderson Hutchinson just a few weeks ago (August 14). He is currently on a three-fight win streak.

The Missouri native would end up posting how’s he’s waited for this moment his entire career on social media:

I’ve waited my whole life for this moment!!! pic.twitter.com/XJckVhRDTL

— Kevin Croom (@KevinCroom_mma) August 26, 2020

Caceres (16-12, 1 NC) is on a two-fight win streak. The 32-year-old last fought at UFC 250 in June, beating Chase Hooper via unanimous decision. Making his MMA debut in 2008, Caceres first fought for the UFC in 2011. He is 11-10 with one no-contest with the promotion.

UFC on ESPN+ 33 will be taking place inside the APEX Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The main event will be a light welterweight clash between Anthony Smith and Aleksandar Rakic.