Niinimaki (photo via UFC/ZUFFA)

By FCF Staff

Tom Niinimaki has a new opponent for UFC Fight Night 41 in Berlin, Germany, as the promotion has announced that Niklas Backstrom is replacing Thiago Tavares.

The featherweight fight will take place May 31st at the 02 World Arena. The reason for the withdrawal of Tavares was not disclosed.

Backstrom (7-0) joins the UFC having gone undefeated in seven pro fights, and the Swedish fighter is coming off a quick, stoppage win over Max Coga in March.

Niinimaki (21-5-1) will be competing in the Octagon for just the second time, as the Finish vet earned a split decision win over Rani Yahya in November. Niinmaki has won 12 straight bouts.

UFC FN 41 will be headlined by a middleweight bout between Mark Munoz and Gegard Mousasi.