The Swedish MMA Federation (SMMAF) has not yet approved or denied the latest UFC’s announced matchup between a proposed Octagon newcomer in France’s Taylor Lapilus (8-1) and UFC veteran Dennis Siver (21-9-1), who was left without an opponent when Robert Whiteford withdrew due to injury.  

While the UFC announcement of a matchup went public on September 24th, it still hasn’t gone through the evaluation process from SMMAF, which has taken over review since disbanding of the SMMAF Pro Committee after the Cage Warriors 71 debacle. SMMAF President Johan Halldin, on behalf of the Federation, sets the record straight about the situation to MMAViking.com.

“The SMMAF has previously approved the matchup between Dennis Siver and Robert Whiteford for an event in Stockholm on October 4th to be hosted by the American promoter UFC. Since then Mr. Siver’s opponent has withdrawn due to injury. On 24th September, the SMMAF received a formal request for a change of match for Mr Siver and the request has not yet been processed. Reports in the media saying that the match is already approved is incorrect.”

“It is not uncommon to have to revise match-ups close to the match dates because of injuries. We are used to this happening. The standard reviewing time for matchups regarding professional matches is usually several weeks but in these cases we always try to accommodate and process the requests as quickly as possible. This is also the case with the match on October 4th. To facilitate the review process we have requested additional written information from the UFC match-maker regarding relevant details pertaining to the new requested matchup.”

“We are well aware of the situation at hand and as soon as we have all information needed to review the case will make our decision. Our objective is to further and promote MMA while observing the laws and rules regarding professional MMA matches in Sweden.”

Stay tuned, as the Fight Night Stockholm card is just 7 days away.

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