This weekend’s UFC card in Sao Paulo, Brazil, has taken a hit as headliner Jimi Manuwa suffered a freak injury just days out from his bout with Thiago Santos.
Per ESPN’s Ariel Helwani, England’s Manuwa suffered a torn hamstring after going for a run shortly after landing in the Brazil. He reports that doctors have described the injury as “severe” which likely means Manuwa is looking at a six-week recovery.
After scrambling to find a short notice replacement for Manuwa to face hometown fighter Thiago Santos, UFC officials have settled on the 11-1 Eryk Anders who fought less than a month ago at UFC Lincoln where he defeated Tim Williams by a spectacular third round headkick KO.
Pissed is an understatement. I and the team will be putting out an official statement later. Thanks for all the well wishes guys. 🙏🏾
— JIMI MANUWA (@POSTERBOYJM) September 17, 2018
Santos was himself a replacement for Glover Teixera who was forced to withdraw last month due to a shoulder complaint.
This will be Anders’ second UFC main event. The first, which also came in Brazil, ended in the first defeat of his professional career after Lyoto Machida was awarded a split decision victory back in February.
