When third-ranked Khabib Nurmagomedov was forced out of his UFC 187 lightweight bout against second-ranked Donald Cerrone due to injury, John Makdessi was presented with the opportunity to step in on short notice.
Makdessi fought on April 25, finishing UFC newcomer Shane Campbell in the first round at UFC 186. He agreed to replace Nurmagomedov without hesitation.
“It’s perfect because I just finished off training camp, I’m already in top shape, and I had a couple of days to rest my body. At the end of the day, I’m the type of fighter; I train all year long.