Akiyama to be replaced by Dan Miller against Marquardt at UFC 128

Posted by Thomas Volkert (Staff Writer)

Mar 13

After the devastating earthquake that rocked Japan, Dana White made mention on Friday that both Yoshihiro Akiyama and his family were safe and that he would be at UFC 128. Things have changed as the Judoka affectionately called Sexyama has pulled out of the fight against Nate “The Great” Marquardt. Taking his place, will be New Jersey’s own Dan Miller. The announcement was made on UFC.com.

Miller, who was originally slated to fight Nick Catone on the card, will now step up on short notice to face the highly ranked Marquardt. The AMA Fight Club product Miller, has won his last two fights in a row, after dropping three straight, takes yet another fight on short notice.

“New Jersey native Dan Miller proves once again that he will fight anyone, anywhere, anytime by agreeing to step up from the prelims to face Nate Marquardt,” said White. “Marquardt has long been a top ten ranked middleweight and Miller jumped at the opportunity to face him.”

The new pairing between Miller and Marquardt will remain on the main card, a card that will feature both Miller brothers for the second time as his younger Jim Miller takes on Kamal Shalorous in a Lightweight fight.

No word was mentioned if Nick Catone will remain on the card or if he will be moved to a future card.