• UFC on Fuel 9

Latifi confirmed as Mousasi opponent

ESPN staff
April 3, 2013
Gegard Mousasi will have a new opponent in the guise of Ilir Latifi © Getty Images
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The UFC has confirmed Ilir Latifi will step in for the injured Alexander Gustafsson to take on Gegard Mousasi at UFC on FUEL TV 9.

Gustafsson emerged as a doubt at the weekend and following assessment, he has been deemed unfit to fight in account if a cut eye.

It is being suggested the light-heavyweight could be cleared to fight inside three weeks but he will now have to plot a new schedule.

When reports about Gustafsson's injury emerged, Wanderlei Silva's name was put forward but this was swiftly dismissed by UFC officials who have confirmed Latifi will fill the void.

Known as 'the Sledgehammer', Latifi has a 7-2 record and will make his UFC debut against Mousasi. He will enter the Octagon on the back of a three-fight unbeaten run. His most recent fight was in October 2012.

The co-main event will be the lightweight bout between Ross Pearson and Ryan Couture.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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