Undefeated Japanese prospect Rinya
Nakamura has a new opponent for his next Octagon
assignment.
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Nakamura was originally scheduled to take on Brady
Hiestand at
UFC 298 on Feb. 17 in Anaheim, California. However, Carlos Vera
will now replace an injured Hiestand and face Nakamura on less than
a month’s notice. MMAjunkie.com was first to report the new
matchup.
“Hybrid” made his professional MMA debut in 2021. Nakamura went on
to win the “Road to UFC” tournament in 2022, scoring three finishes
in as many outings. The 28-year-old is fresh off a decision win
over Fernie
Garcia at UFC Fight Night 225 in August.
Meanwhile, the 36-year-old Vera was supposed to make his UFC debut
against Daniel
Marcos back in December 2022, but was the bout fell through due
to Marcos’ visa issues. Vera then competed on “The Ultimate Fighter
31” as a part of team Conor
McGregor last year, where he lost a decision in the opening
round against Brad Katona.
As “TUF” outings are considered exhibition matches, Vera is
currently riding a four-fight win streak heading into his Octagon
debut.