Ernesto Rodriguez Replaces Shamil Musaev in PFL Title Fight After Weight-Cut Complications
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 24
Ernesto Rodriguez Replaces Shamil Musaev in PFL Title Fight After Weight-Cut Complications
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Jul 24
Summary
Ernesto Rodriguez will face unbeaten Thad Jean for the PFL welterweight world championship on July 25 in Washington after Shamil Musaev withdrew from the main event.
Weight-cut complications forced Musaev out, prompting PFL to elevate #8 Rodriguez on short notice against #3 Jean at CareFirst Arena.
Rodriguez, 11-1 and on a nine-fight win streak, accepted immediately and brings a wrestling-heavy style that differs sharply from the striker Jean had prepared for.
Jean, 11-0, said he agreed without hesitation and vowed to adapt quickly, framing the late opponent switch as no obstacle to winning the belt.
The reshuffled title bout now headlines the ESPN main card Saturday night, with prelims starting on the ESPN App.