Nunes Confirms UFC 135 Exit, Awaits Gamburyan in December

Nunes’ original opponent for the Sept. 24 event in Denver, Manny Gamburyan, announced his withdrawal from the bout on Aug. 15 due to a shoulder injury. Along with his team at Nova Uniao, Nunes decided not to accept another matchup, citing injuries and personal problems.

“I won’t fight [at UFC 135] anymore. The UFC didn’t find an opponent quickly and I also got injured in training,” Nunes explained Monday to Sherdog.com. “I’m suffering with painful tendonitis in my left arm, and I also had a problem in my hometown, where some people tried to murder my father. It was the best decision [to postpone the fight] so I can travel south to see my family.”

Nunes, 28, was last seen at June’s UFC 131, where he was outpointed by former lightweight title challenger Kenny Florian. The Rio de Janeiro-based “Gun” still intends to return to action against Gamburyan, with whom he has a personal grudge. During their time in World Extreme Cagefighting, the pair crossed paths and exchanged words around the time Gamburyan challengers Nunes’ teammate, Jose Aldo, for the WEC featherweight title.

“I think I will face him. That’s my main focus now,” Nunes said, noting that he could return to action in December. “When I give the green light to my manager, after I’m fully recovered, I’ll talk to him and see if the UFC can match us. I would rather fight more tough and named guys, but we have this feud and it will be cool.”

Colin Foster contributed to this report.