Injuries have already gotten a fight canceled from UFC on FX 7 (Michael Kuiper vs. Caio Magalhaes), and now another injury has prompted a new signing to face one of the lightweight division’s most entertaining strikers. Justin Salas (10-4 MMA, 1-1 UFC) has pulled out of his fight with Edson Barboza, and replacing him is Lucas Martins (via MMA Junkie):
Stepping in for Salas is UFC newcomer Lucas Martins (11-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC). Sources close to the promotion on Wednesday confirmed the news to MMAjunkie.com (www.mmajunkie.com). UFC officials later announced the change.
Martins is also from Brazil and has finished all but one of his fights. He certainly kept himself busy as 9 of his 11 bouts took place in 2012, including a TKO win over Oberdan Vieira at Jungle Fights 46 on December 13th.
Barboza has not fought since his stunning upset loss to Jamie Varner at UFC 146 in May. He is known for his flashy and dynamic striking skills, most notably displayed in his spinning heel kick KO of Terry Etim a little less than one year ago.
This fight will air on the FUEL TV portion of the preliminary card.
SBN coverage of UFC on FX 7: Belfort vs. Bisping