It was announced a couple of days ago that Gesias “JZ” Cavalcante would square off against Justin Gaethje for the inaugural lightweight championship at WSOF 8 on January 18.
Lewis Gonzalez steps in for ‘JZ’ at WSOF 8 to take on Justin Gaethje for lightweight title
Earlier today however, “JZ” was forced to withdraw from the match-up due to an injury and according to WSOF President Ray Sefo, he told media at today’s open workout that Gaethje wouldn’t know of his opponent until after WSOF 7 went down this Saturday night.
Just hours after that statement, MMAFighting broke the news that Lewis Gonzalez would in fact be stepping in to take on Gaethje in the main event next year.
Gaethje (10-0) is a member of Colorado’s Grudge Training Center and has already earned WSOF wins over Dan Lauzon, Brian Cobb and Cavalcante. Fighting professionally since 2011, Gaethje is undefeated in his first 10 career fights, and nine of those have ended via stoppage, including eight by knockout.
Gonzalez (9-0) is coming off a technical decision victory at WSOF 4 against Antonio McKee. He has fought for numerous regional promotions throughout his very young mixed martial arts career and has built up a nice undefeated record.
WSOF 8 will go down on January 18 from Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Fla. Also expected to be on the fight card is a light heavyweight bout between Anthony “Rumble” Johnson and Mike Kyle.
