Mairbek Taisumov has been removed from the UFC 223 on April 7 after having his visa delayed.

By Jim Edwards and Damon Martin

Mairbek Taisumov will not fight at UFC 223 against Evan Dunham.

A sources close to the Taisumov camp has informed MMANytt.com that Taisumov’s visa has been “delayed and not denied.”

The decision was taken last evening to remove the Russian from his bout with Dunham given the uncertainty around whether he will be able obtain his visa in time for April 7.

Taisumov is understanbly devastated by the news of his removal and is hoping to be rebooked on another UFC fight card at the nearest convenient time.

The Russian is currently 26-5 as a professional and is riding high off the back of 5 straight KO/TKO wins in the UFC. Taisumov last competed back at UFC Fight Night 115 in Rotterdam, Netherlands where he defeated Felipe Silva in the first round via knockout.

The UFC are yet to officially confirm Taisumov’s removal or whether Dunham will stay on the card.

More to follow…

Our source also revealed that Taisumov’s camp did make an enquiry about an opening on the upcoming UFC London fight card on March 17 following the withdrawal of Alex Reyes. Taisumov and his team were informed that a replacement has already been found for the bout.