Maia replaces Ponzinibbio vs. Usman in UFC Chile main event

Kamaru Usman found the top-tier opponent he's been pining for.

With original dance partner Santiago Ponzinibbio nursing a hand injury, Demian Maia has stepped up to face Usman in the welterweight main event of UFC Fight Night 129 in Santiago, Chile on May 19, the promotion announced Thursday following a report from MMA Fighting's Ariel Helwani.

Usman had long lamented the lack of elite takers at 170 pounds, and sees his wish to remain on the bill against an elite foe fulfilled less than a month out from fight night. The 30-year-old has gotten his hand raised in all seven of his walks to the Octagon, and most recently took a unanimous decision over Emil Meek at UFC Fight Night 124 in January.

Maia, 40, gets back in the saddle after losing on points to reigning welterweight champ Tyron Woodley and Colby Covington in July and October, respectively. The Brazilian had won seven straight prior to his failed bid to dethrone Woodley at UFC 214, and has gone 10-4 since moving down from middleweight nearly six years ago.