Thursday 2 July 2015 14:13, UK
Conor McGregor will face Chad Mendes at UFC 189 later this month after challenger Jose Aldo withdrew from his scheduled title defence.
The featherweight champion has been struggling with a rib injury and it has now been confirmed the problem will prevent him from fighting in Las Vegas on July 11.
That means McGregor's sixth UFC appearance will be against two-time champion Mendes for the interim title, a fight the Irishman is predicting he will win in a four-minute knockout.
McGregor previously claimed Aldo should "toughen up" and fight through the pain barrier to take him on, and he was understandably angry when confirmation arrived of his withdrawal.
"If a man is scared for his life, we can not force him to step inside and fight me," McGregor said of the Brazilian who boasts a 25-1 record with 14 knockouts.
"Doctors have cleared him to fight - it's a bruise - but he still pulled out.
“Rightfully so, the belt should be taken from him and we will contest for the interim belt or, in my opinion, the real belt."
There was also disappointment from UFC president Dana White, who said: "Aldo's rib is too painful and he will not be fighting.
“Chad Mendes will fight Conor McGregor for the interim belt. It's (Aldo's) decision. I don't feel great about it.
“We've spent a lot of money promoting this fight and a lot of people were excited. It's definitely disappointing."
