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UFC 313 has taken a major hit as Dan Hooker has officially withdrawn from his highly anticipated fight against Justin Gaethje due to a hand injury. The co-main event, set for March 8 in Las Vegas, was expected to deliver fireworks between two of the most exciting strikers in MMA. However, Hooker announced the unfortunate news on Tuesday through his daughter’s YouTube channel.
Hooker, known for his warrior spirit, shared the disappointing update in a candid message.
“Dad had a fight, or was supposed to have a fight, but I’ve busted my paw,” Hooker said, confirming the injury that has forced him out of the bout.
The news first broke through MMA reporter Benny P, leaving fight fans frustrated over missing out on what was expected to be an all-action war.
With Hooker out, Rafael Fiziev wasted no time stepping up as a potential replacement. The UFC lightweight contender took to social media, tagging Gaethje and declaring,
“Let’s run it back.”
Fiziev and Gaethje previously clashed in a three-round war at UFC 286 in March 2023, where Gaethje edged out a majority decision victory in one of the year’s best fights. Given their history, Fiziev’s willingness to step in could make for a thrilling short-notice rematch.
As of now, the UFC has not officially announced whether Gaethje will remain on the UFC 313 card with a new opponent or if his fight with Hooker will be rescheduled.
Hooker was riding a three-fight win streak, including hard-fought split-decision victories over Mateusz Gamrot and Jalin Turner. His withdrawal is a setback, but he will likely return to action once healed. Meanwhile, Gaethje was looking to bounce back from his devastating last-second knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300 in what is widely considered the 2024 Fight of the Year.
UFC 313 is set to take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, headlined by Alex Pereira defending his light heavyweight title against Magomed Ankalaev.