Rodriguez withdraws from Noche UFC 4 main event, Jose Delgado steps in against Jean Silva

Yair Rodriguez has withdrawn from the Noche UFC 4 main event for undisclosed reasons, with Jose Delgado now set to face Jean Silva on September 12 at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Arizona, according to a report by Guilherme Cruz.

Delgado (12-2) has gone 4-1 in the UFC since making his Octagon debut in 2024, most recently earning decision victories over Andre Fili and Austin Bashi. The step up in competition against Silva (17-3) represents by far the biggest test of his young UFC career.

Silva, known as “Lord,” enters the bout in strong form, having rebounded from his sole UFC defeat — a loss to Diego Lopes — with a decision win over Arnold Allen. Before that setback, the Brazilian had finished all five of his previous UFC opponents. He responded to the change on X with characteristic composure.

“Hunter took care of everything, we have a new target,” Silva wrote. “New opponent, same date, same goal.”

Rodriguez (20-5) is facing renewed criticism following the withdrawal, which marks yet another late pullout in a career increasingly defined by inactivity. “El Pantera” has not competed since defeating Patricio Freire last April — a win that came after back-to-back stoppage losses to Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega.