A lightweight bout between Dustin Poirier and Joseph Duffy was originally booked as main event for UFC Fight Night: Holohan vs. Smolka. However, the bout was canceled on fight week due to Duffy sustaining a concussion during a sparring session.[8] The fight was later rescheduled for this event.[9]
Erik Koch was expected to face Drew Dober at this event. However, on December 4, Koch was forced to pull out of the event due to injury and was replaced by Scott Holtzman.[14]
Kelvin Gastelum was expected to face Kyle Noke at this event. However, on December 22, Gastelum was forced to pull out due to a wrist injury and was replaced by promotional newcomer Alex Morono.[15]
On March 23, it was announced that Diego Brandão tested positive for marijuana metabolites and was issued a temporary suspension by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC).[16] He was eventually suspended on May 19 for a period of nine months by USADA, retroactive to the date of the fight.[17]
The following fighters were awarded $50,000 bonuses:[19]
Fight of the Night: Robbie Lawler vs. Carlos Condit
Performance of the Night:Stipe Miocic and Michael McDonald
Reported payout
The following is the reported payout to the fighters as reported to the Nevada State Athletic Commission. It does not include sponsor money and also does not include the UFC's traditional "fight night" bonuses.[20]
Robbie Lawler: $500,000 (no win bonus) def. Carlos Condit: $350,000