Li Jingliang needs a new opponent for UFC Beijing as Elizeu Zaleski was forced out of the Nov. 24 card in China due to a right knee injury, sources confirmed to MMA Fighting after Jingliang revealed Zaleski’s withdrawal on his social media.
According to sources, “Capoeira” suffered a partial ligament tear in his right knee but will avoid surgery. The Brazilian welterweight is expected to be cleared to train again in three weeks.
Zaleski (20-5), winner of his last six in the UFC, was looking to keep the momentum going following back-to-back spectacular finishes over Sean Strickland — spinning wheel kick — and Luigi Vendramini — flying knee — earlier this year.
Jingliang (15-5), who now waits for a new opponent, scored a decision win over Daichi Abe in June, bouncing from a loss to Jake Matthews four months before. The 30-year-old Chinese talent won seven of his 10 bouts inside the Octagon.
UFC Beijing takes place at the Cadillac Arena in China and features Curtis Blaydes vs. Francis Ngannou in the main event.
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