Abubakar Nurmagomedov out, Preston Parsons steps in to fight Daniel Rodriguez at UFC Vegas 31

Daniel Rodriguez will face a replacement opponent next Saturday.

MMA Fighting confirmed with sources with knowledge of the change that Rodriguez (14-2) is scheduled to fight octagon newcomer Preston Parsons (9-2) at UFC Vegas 31 on July 17, following the withdrawal of Rodriguez’s originally scheduled opponent Abubakar Nurmagomedov. Parsons’ signing was first reported by MMA Island, while Nurmagomedov’s withdrawal was first mentioned by Rodriguez in an Instagram story.

The reason for Nurmagomedov’s withdrawal has not been disclosed.

Parsons makes his UFC debut on a four-fight win streak, with seven wins in his past eight fights. The 25-year-old has most recently competed for Florida’s Combat Night promotion. He makes a quick turnaround for his next fight after defeating Jeff Peterson by second-round armbar on June 5. All nine of Parsons’ pro victories have come by way of submission.

Rodriguez looks to build on a unanimous decision victory over Mike Perry in April. “D-Rod” has won 10 of his past 11 fights and is 4-1 since making his UFC debut in February 2020. He holds notable wins over Perry and Tim Means.