Cesar Almeida steps in to face Donte Johnson at UFC 334
The Brazilian middleweight will replace Baisangur Susurkaev and face Donte Johnson at UFC 334 in New York City.
Donte Johnson will have a new opponent at UFC 334. After Baisangur Susurkaev was forced out of their matchup for undisclosed reasons, Cesar Almeida will step in to face the American at Madison Square Garden on Nov. 14. The change was first reported by Ag Fight.
Cesar Almeida Replaces Baisangur Susurkaev
Susurkaev was set to face Johnson in an anticipated matchup between two undefeated prospects. However, the Russian middleweight, who is Khamzat Chimaev's longtime training partner, was forced to withdraw from the fight for undisclosed reasons.
Almeida has now agreed to step in as Susurkaev's replacement. The Brazilian enters the matchup looking to return to winning ways after suffering back-to-back defeats to Cezary Oleksiejczuk and Damian Pinas.
Almeida made his UFC debut in April 2024 after participating at Dana White's Contender Series the year before. The Brazilian has gone 3-3 inside the Octagon since joining the promotion. Known for his technical precision and power, "Cesinha" is a highly decorated former kickboxer.
Donte Johnson Remains Undefeated
Johnson, meanwhile, will now face a different opponent at UFC 334. The American fighter is undefeated in his professional career, winning all three of his Octagon appearances so far. Johnson also participated at DWCS, where he defeated Darion Abbey by TKO to secure his UFC contract.
Like his new opponent, Johnson is also a striker, having won seven of his nine victories by TKO or knockout. The American has also won two of his three UFC appearances by stoppage, including his most recent victory over Eric McConico in August.
Almeida and Johnson are expected to meet at UFC 334 on Nov. 14 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, with Ciryl Gane vs. Josh Hokit headlining the card.
