Baraniewski offered as replacement to face Guskov at UFC 328

The UFC has offered Polish prospect Iwo Baraniewski a replacement bout against Bogdan Guskov at UFC 328, scheduled for May 9, after Jan Blachowicz was forced to withdraw from the event with a torn meniscus. According to Baraniewski's manager Artur Gwozd, the fighter has received the official contract, though no acceptance has been confirmed as of yet.

Blachowicz, 43, was set to rematch Guskov at UFC 328 before the injury ended his participation. The Polish veteran carries a 29-11-2 record and holds the number five ranking in the light heavyweight division. Standing six-foot-two with a 78-inch reach, he averages 3.44 significant strikes per minute and lands them at 49 percent accuracy.

Guskov, nicknamed "Czarevitch," enters the situation looking for a new dance partner after the withdrawal. The Uzbekistan-based fighter holds an 18-3-1 record and sits tenth in the light heavyweight rankings. The 33-year-old stands six-foot-three with a 76-inch reach and has put together impressive striking numbers, averaging 4.17 significant strikes per minute at a 55 percent accuracy rate. He also generates 1.1 submission attempts per 15 minutes despite recording no takedowns.

Baraniewski, 27, would step in on relatively short notice if he signs. The undefeated Pole holds a perfect 8-0-0 record and stands six feet tall with a 73-inch reach. His recorded striking output of 15.77 significant strikes per minute at 70 percent accuracy stands out sharply, though that sample should be viewed in context given his early career stage.

Why it matters

• Blachowicz's injury removes a ranked veteran from the card, creating a significant reshuffle at light heavyweight
• Baraniewski would be making a steep step up in competition against a ranked UFC fighter on short notice
• Guskov's submission activity against an undefeated but less experienced opponent raises notable stylistic questions for the division