A bout between Lyoto Machida and Phil Davis was linked to this event; however, it was revealed that Davis is still recovering from a knee injury and the bout would not occur. A bout between Jon Jones and Rashad Evans was also linked to this event. However, a lingering thumb injury will cost Evans a potential title bout with Jones for the second time, as Jones is now expected to face Lyoto Machida at the event.
Rory MacDonald was expected to face Brian Ebersole at the event; however, on November 8th, MacDonald pulled out of the bout citing an injury and was replaced by Claude Patrick, who was promoted from a preliminary card bout with Rich Attonito as a result. Rich Attonito will remain on the card against UFC newcomer Jake Hecht.
UFC 140 will feature 4 preliminary bouts live on Ion Television and on Sportsnet in Canada.
