Jamahal Hill’s Reported Injury Opens Door For New Opponent In Light Heavyweight Clash

It has been reported that Jamahal Hill’s fight against Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC Kansas City has been cancelled following news that Hill was dealing with a prolonged leg injury. The word came from multiple sources, including MMA personality Kevin, who relayed that Hill has been forced to pull out of the main event scheduled for April 26, 2025.

This fight was particularly anticipated because both fighters were trying to solidify their position in the light heavyweight division, particularly under their current circumstances. Hill was a former champion who had lost two straight fights, once against Alex Pereira, and again vs. Jiri Prochazka. Now Hill is added to the lines of fights canceled, which comes at an unfortunate time for the UFC who has had other fights canceled recently as well.

Many fans have said they are disappointed in the cancellation and related it to the “cursed” fights in MMA history. While the UFC has not made an official cancellation announcement yet, it appears that Derrick Lewis may be coming into the card to add star power. As we wait for the replacement fighter to be announced, let’s take a look at two possible replacements.

Who should replace Jamahal Hill against Khalil Rountree Jr.?

In light of Jamahal Hill’s withdrawal from the fight against Khalil Rountree Jr., both Jiri Prochazka and Aleksandar Rakic should be seriously considered as replacements. Considering the fight was supposed to main event the show, therefore UFC should look for top ranked contenders from the light heavyweight division.

Jiri Prochazka: Prochazka, the former light heavyweight champion, just recently knocked out Hill at UFC 311 with a lovely display of striking. Now, Prochaza has a record of 31 wins, 5 losses, and 1 no contest. The Czech Samurai is looking to find his footing in the division after recently losing some momentum against Alex Pereira twice. However, he showed improvement in his techniques against Jamahal Hill in his last fight.

With the win he called Alex Pereira out for a third fight but the Brazilian is looking for a rematch after losing his title against Magomed Ankalaev. In that case, the Czech’s previous performances leverage him as an obvious replacement for Hill, should the organization be seeking a notable bout.

Aleksandar Rakic: Rakic has been a name in the light heavyweight division with knockout power and tremendous athleticism. Although he has struggled getting fights more recently he has remained present in rankings and should certainly be in consideration to step up and provide a fun fight against Rountree. Rakic recently lost to Prochazka and Magomed Ankalaev last year but continues to be a prominent name in the division.

Each fighter possesses notoriety and skill and should be favorable replacements for Hill in this highly promoted matchup. The two potential replacements could save the match card, else UFC will have to look for a new main event for the show. However until now UFC is yet to confirm the news and we will have to wait for further updates regarding same.