Geoff Neal has been forced out of his scheduled UFC 330 matchup against Chidi Njokuani. The UFC is now searching for a replacement opponent to step in for the card.
Geoff Neal has been forced off UFC 330, withdrawing from his scheduled welterweight bout against Chidi Njokuani ahead of the August 15 card. The UFC is now searching for a replacement opponent to step in opposite Njokuani on the event billed as UFC 330: Makhachev vs. Machado Garry.
Neal, 35, carries a 16-8 record and competes out of Fortis MMA. The Texas-based southpaw stands five-foot-eleven with a 75-inch reach and has built his reputation on heavy hands, landing 5.02 significant strikes per minute at a 50 percent accuracy rate. The withdrawal marks another setback for a fighter who has spent much of his career navigating the crowded welterweight division.
Njokuani, nicknamed "Bang Bang," now faces uncertainty heading into the card. The 37-year-old holds a 25-12 record and trains out of One Kick's Gym. Standing six-foot-three with an 80-inch reach, he is a pure striker who lands 5.16 significant strikes per minute at a striking accuracy rate of 61 percent. His game is almost entirely built on the feet — he averages zero takedowns per 15 minutes — making him one of the more distinct stylistic presences in the 170-pound weight class.
Why it matters
- Njokuani's spot on the card is now in jeopardy unless a willing replacement can be found on short notice.
- A six-week turnaround to UFC 330 gives the promotion a narrow window to negotiate a new matchup.
- Neal's absence removes a high-output striking matchup that had the makings of a compelling stand-and-trade contest.
Saturday, August 15, 2026
