UFC featherweight challenger Chad Mendes is currently without an opponent after Manny Gamburyan was forced out of their February meeting with multiple injuries. The former The Ultimate Fighter finalist suffered injuries to both his thumb and elbow that will sideline the featherweight for a few months.

SI.com first reported the news on Friday.

A new opponent is currently being sought for Mendes. “Money” called out fellow contender Ricardo Lamas on twitter Friday but was rejected due to the top contender having committed to another fight this May.

Tweeted Lamas:

@chadmendes I already accepted a fight in may, waiting to announce it, but I’m sure our paths will cross.

— Ricardo Lamas (@RicardoLamasMMA) February 9, 2013

The short notice, and shortage of available contenders, puts the former number one contender in a similar spot to his UFC on FX 6 bout against Yaotzin Meza. If Mendes remains on the card he could very well find himself in a similar situation by taking on a UFC newcomer.

UFC 157 will be headlined by UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey facing Liz Carmouche. The historic fight card will serve as the first UFC women’s fight. The bout will be co-headlined by a light heavyweight scrap between Lyoto Machida and Dan Henderson. UFC 157 will take place February 23 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.