Well, the search for Justin Gaethje’s new UFC Lincoln opponent didn’t last long.

Late Wednesday night it was reported that Al Iaquinta had pulled out of his upcoming main event bout with the former WSOF champion, Gaethje that was set to take place on August 25th.

The reason for why Iaquinta pulled out remains unknown but now we have the answer to who his replacement is.

After the quick rumblings of possibly Kevin Lee or David Teymur filling in, the UFC has now confirmed ESPN‘s initial report that James Vick is replacing the Serra-Longo product, Iaquinta.

That punching bag Gaethje don't want these problems!! https://t.co/fqa92kRLgM

— James Vick (@JamesVickMMA) June 28, 2018

That punching bag Gaethje don’t want these problems!!

Texas’ Vick has been clamoring for a big fight and now he’s got one. Originally slated to fight Paul Felder at UFC Boise on the 14th, he will now prepare for his first UFC main event. Unfortunately for Felder, this will be his second fight fallout in a row.

Vick currently rides a continually impressive four-fight winning streak and only has one loss on his resume which came to Beneil Dariush in 2016.

With Vick on the upswing, Gaethje has been on the down.

Despite having lost his two most recent outings, Gaethje has remained must-see TV as he continues to put on fights of the night and fight of the year candidates. So really, it doesn’t matter who his opponent. As long as there is a body standing across from him, Gaethje will find a way to entertain the masses.

This article first appeared on BJPenn.com on 6/27/2018