The reason for Cope not being licensed is currently unknown. Cope has had issues with the NSAC before, in 2007 he tested positive for the anabolic steroid Boldenone and had his license suspended by the NSAC.
Malaipet last competed in August when he dropped a unanimous decision to Chike Lindsay, despite being in what is the worst stretch of his career Malaipet is always ready to fight. In July he took a kickboxing bout against highly regarded UK fighter Tim Thomas on one days notice, fighting Thomas to a draw.