With UFC lightweight contender Khabib Nurmagomedov now on the sidelines for five months due to a meniscus tear, John Makdessi has stepped in to face Donald Cerrone at UFC 187.
UFC officials announced the matchup on Thursday evening, following an initial report from ESPN.com.
Makdessi (13-3) is coming off a spectacular first-round TKO win over Canada’s Shane Campbell last weekend at UFC 186. He also owns wins over Daron Cruickshank and Sam Stout. The 29-year old’s last loss came against Alan Patrick at UFC 169.
Cerrone (27-6) is on the hottest streak of his veteran career, currently riding a seven-fight winning streak.