Two regulars at bantamweight will instead meet at featherweight.
After not fighting at all in 2019, Brian Kelleher is ready to make a fourth appearance in 2020.
MMA Fighting reported that the bantamweight veteran is targeted for a September 5th showdown with Ricky Simon. As has been the case for Kelleher’s two previous bouts, this matchup will take place at 145 lbs.
Kelleher (21-11) started this year off brightly by quickly submitting prospect Ode Osbourne at UFC 246, then recorded a vicious second-round knockout of Hunter Azure at UFC Jacksonville in May. The New Yorker’s quest for his first three-fight winning streak inside the Octagon fell just short against Cody Stamann.
Simon (16-3) is known for his fast-paced, high-energy style of fighting, which makes a Kelleher bout all that more intriguing. The former LFA champion began his UFC career 3-0 before consecutive defeats to Urijah Faber and Rob Font. He returned to the win column in Jacksonville by besting Ray Borg via split decision.
While nothing has been announced yet, a heavyweight bout between Alistair Overeem and Augusto Sakai is reportedly in the works for the main event.
