UFC 130: Brad Pickett Injured, Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson Steps In to Face Miguel Torres

An injury to Brad Pickett has forced him out of his UFC 130 bout against Miguel Torres. Stepping up in his place will be Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson.

The UFC formerly made the announcement on Wednesday evening via their website.

“The fastest man in the division has answered the call, and Demetrious Johnson will move into Pickett’s spot to face the former divisional kingpin,” said UFC president Dana White. “Both men have verbally agreed to the fight.”

Prior to stepping in for Pickett, Johnson was preparing for a bout with Brazilian fighter Renan Barao on the same card. Barao is expected to remain on the card, but an opponent for him is yet to be determined.

Torres (39-3) is on a two-fight win streak and coming off a successful debut in the Octagon at UFC 126 against Antonio Banuelos. The former WEC bantamweight champion is in his 11th year as a professional mixed martial artist, but the wheels keep spinning for the seasoned veteran. He’ll look to keep them going against a tough opponent in Johnson.

“Mighty Mouse” (8-1) is on a win streak of his own, taking the “W” in his last three outings, most recently defeating Norifumi “Kid” Yamamoto at UFC 126. Coincidently, Johnson’s only loss is to the man he’s stepping in for, Brad Pickett, at WEC 48 in April of last year. Though he doesn’t have the record and career history Torres does, Johnson is still very dangerous and should pose some stiff opposition for Torres on fight night.

UFC 130: Edgar vs. Maynard 3 takes place May 28 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.