Gian's original opponent, Patrick Cummins, pulled out of the fight with a staph infection.
[11] However, it was reported on October 21, 2018 that Safarov pulled out from the event due to undisclosed reasons and the bout was scrapped.
[16] Safarov was expected to face promotional newcomer Da Un Jung on August 31, 2019 at UFC Fight Night 157.
[21] However, the bout was moved to UFC Fight Night: Felder vs. dos Anjos on November 14 after Safarov faced travel restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
[22] In turn, Safarov pulled out due to weight cut issues a day before the event and the pairing was canceled once again.