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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
Heavyweight Rolles Gracie is making his UFC debut this weekend at UFC 109 in Las Vegas, but the opponent he's been training for is not expected to make the trip. According to multiple reports, Brit Mostapha Al Turk is having visa issues and by all accounts he's not expected to make it for the fight.
According to a report from MMAJunkie.com, his replacement is expected to be a newcomer to the UFC, the "Mexicutioner" Joey Beltran. The 10-3 heavyweight stated on his official website that he has signed a four fight deal with the organization, and the MMAJunkie report states that he has agreed to the bout.
The UFC is awaiting final word on the status of Al Turk, and the report states that they have not contacted the Nevada State Athletic Commission to discuss a replacement fighter as of yet. The Ultimate Fighter season ten competitor Jon Madsen has also been a reported possibility for the fight, though MMAJunkie states that Beltran is 99% confirmed as the opponent.
UFC 109 is set to air live on pay-per-view Saturday night, headlined by the Hall of Fame light heavyweight bout between Randy Couture and Mark Coleman. This bout is set to take place on the night's un-televised prelims.
Penick's Analysis: This is an unfortunate issue for Al Turk, who has lost both of his fights in the Octagon, as this was a definite chance for him to rebound. Gracie brings his famous last name to the Octagon, becoming the first in the family to fight in the UFC since Royce lost to Matt Hughes at UFC 60, while Beltran will be coming in as a solid prospect in his own right. All of Beltran's career wins have come by stoppage, and he holds a first round TKO over a former UFC fighter, Sherman Pendergarst at a Bellator event last May. If this fight comes to pass, it will be a solid heavy hitter vs. submission specialist type of matchup that could make for a very good opener for any fans that decide to show up early in Vegas.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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