The UFC’s first injury of 2013 has hit.
Erick Silva who was set to take on Jay Hieron at UFC 156 in February has been forced to withdraw due to injury. Stepping in for the injured Silva is Strikeforce Veteran Tyron Woodley.
The UFC announced the injury and new match-up on Wednesday evening.
Woodley (10-1) is hoping to regain steam, as he’s coming off of the first loss of his career. He lost to former UFC fighter Nate Marquardt back in July when the two fought for the vacant Strikeforce Welterweight title. Woodley spent the majority of his career under the Strikeforce banner and will leave the promotion with an 8-1 record.
Hieron (23-6) made his return to the Octagon at October’s UFC on FX 5 event, but unfortunately lost a very close decision to Jake Ellenberger. This was his third straight loss within the organization; he fought two other times early in his career. He went on a 10 fight winning streak before being derailed by Ben Askren via a very controversial decision at Bellator 56.
No word as to when Silva (14-3) will make his return, but he is looking to get back in the win column. In his last outing he lost to one of the welterweights best, Jon Fitch at UFC 153 in October.
UFC 156 is set to go down on February 2 from the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas and will no doubt be stacked as that is Super Bowl weekend. Already announced to be on the card is UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo vs. Frankie Edgar, as well as former light heavyweight champion Rashad Evans vs. Antonio Rogerio Nogueira.
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