Multiple outlets confirmed the change after Taha announced the new bout on his Instagram account. Shore was forced to withdraw from the contest due to visa issues. UFC on ESPN 17 takes place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas and is headlined by a light heavyweight clash between Thiago Santos and Glover Teixeira.
A former Resurrection Fighting Alliance champion, Barcelos has kicked off his promotional tenure with four consecutive triumphs. Most recently, the 33-year-old Brazilian outpointed Said Nurmagomedov at UFC Fight Night 165 on Dec. 21.
Taha’s most recent victory over Bruno Silva was overturned to a no contest when Taha tested positive for a diuretic. Taha’s one-year suspension ended in October. Prior to that, the Dortmund, Germany, native lost a decision to Nad Narimani in his promotional debut at UFC Fight Night 134 before knocking out Boston Salmon in 25 seconds at UFC 236.