Tim Kennedy has been called into duty and will not be able to compete for the IFL middleweight title.

Miletich Fighting Academy standout Ryan McGivern, recognized as one of the most improved, up-and-coming athletes in the International Fight League, will fight for the 185-lb. title against current champion Matt Horwich, one of three championship matchups at the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas on Friday, February 29.

“While it is disappointing to us and to Tim that he will be unable to compete due to his military obligations, we are excited and fortunate that a fighter of Ryan McGivern’s caliber is available to step in,” said Bas Rutten, IFL Vice President, Fighter Operations. “Ryan has been a great success story and his all-around style should make for an entertaining matchup with Matt Horwich.”

Four other bouts have also now been finalized on the eight-bout card, including three featuring Xtreme Couture vs. Mario Sperry’s World Class Fight Center camps. The entire card includes:

• Ryan McGivern, vs Matt Horwich for the IFL middleweight title.
• Roy Nelson will take on IFL newcomer Fabiano Scherner in a heavyweight title match.
• Ryan Schultz defends his lightweight belt against John Gunderson.
• Benji Radach will compete in a middleweight bout against Leopoldo Serao.
• Lew Polley will battle Alexandre Ferreira at 205 lbs.
• Santino Defranco will take on Rafael Dias in a featherweight contest.
• The Lions Den’s Pat Healy will take on Team Quest’s Jake Ellenberger.
• Ian Loveland vs Dennis Davis in a 145 lb preliminary bout.