UFC lightweight Tony Ferguson has withdrawn from a high-profile matchup against Khabib Nurmagomedov on April 16 in Tampa because of fluid and blood in his lungs.
UFC officials confirmed Ferguson's injury to ESPN.com on Tuesday. The 155-pound bout was scheduled to headline UFC on Fox next weekend at Amalie Arena. A light heavyweight bout featuring Rashad Evans (19-4-1) and Glover Teixeira (24-4), which had been scheduled as the co-main event, will now serve as the night's main event and consist of five rounds.
According to a UFC official, a decision on whether to remove Nurmagomedov from the event has not been made.
Nurmagomedov (22-0), 27, was looking to return from a two-year layoff. He has been slowed by multiple injuries and hasn't fought since a unanimous decision win against current champion Rafael dos Anjos in April 2014.
Ferguson (20-3) explained his withdrawal from the fight on social media Tuesday.
Usually I can Power thru small Bumps & Bruises. Doc Said I have Fluid/Blood in my Lung #UFCTampa I Will Heal Up. I Will be Back.#TeamElCucuy
— Tony Ferguson (@TonyFergusonXT) April 5, 2016
Ferguson is on a seven-fight winning streak. There is no timetable yet for his return.