UFC matchmakers retaliated against Vagaev and Gasanov over signing controversy

Hamzat Chimaev secured Vagaev's UFC signing while Khabib Nurmagomedov secured Gasanov's, both bypassing the standard matchmaking process by going directly through organization executives. Angered matchmakers responded by first booking Vagaev and Gasanov against each other, then pulling Gasanov from the fight citing failed doping clearance. Vagaev was subsequently told his only available opponent was Saygid Izagakhmaev at 170 pounds — a matchup that would either push Vagaev aside if he refused or deliver Izagakhmaev a tough fight if he accepted, which Vagaev ultimately did.