Takanori Gomi Replaces Danny Castillo, Faces Issac Vallie-Flagg at UFC 172

Former Pride FC lightweight champion Takanori Gomi will return to the Octagon to face Isaac Vallie-Flagg at UFC 172, officials announced on Tuesday evening.

Gomi replaces Danny Castillo in facing Vallie-Flagg on the card, which takes place April 26 on pay-per-view in Baltimore.

“The Fireball Kid” (34-9, 1 NC) last competed in the UFC in March of 2013, when he fought to a split-decision loss against Diego Sanchez at UFC on Fuel TV 8. The Japanese fighter had a rough start in the organization, going 1-3 in his first four fights, but he has won two of his last three outings.

Vallie-Flagg (14-4-1) is a two-fight veteran of the UFC, winning his debut against Yves Edwards then dropping his sophomore effort to Elias Silverio.

Castillo will remain on the fight card, according to UFC officials. A reason for his replacement was not disclosed.

UFC 172 is headlined by a light heavyweight title fight between division champion Jon Jones defending his belt against No. 1 contender Glover Teixeira.