Carlos Vera to Replace Brady Hiestand Against Rinya Nakamura at UFC 298

Undefeated Japanese prospect Rinya Nakamura has a new opponent for his next Octagon assignment.

Nakamura was originally scheduled to take on Brady Hiestand at UFC 298 on Feb. 17 in Anaheim, California. However, Carlos Vera will now replace an injured Hiestand and face Nakamura on less than a month’s notice. MMAjunkie.com was first to report the new matchup.

“Hybrid” made his professional MMA debut in 2021. Nakamura went on to win the “Road to UFC” tournament in 2022, scoring three finishes in as many outings. The 28-year-old is fresh off a decision win over Fernie Garcia at UFC Fight Night 225 in August.

Meanwhile, the 36-year-old Vera was supposed to make his UFC debut against Daniel Marcos back in December 2022, but was the bout fell through due to Marcos’ visa issues. Vera then competed on “The Ultimate Fighter 31” as a part of team Conor McGregor last year, where he lost a decision in the opening round against Brad Katona. As “TUF” outings are considered exhibition matches, Vera is currently riding a four-fight win streak heading into his Octagon debut.