Fight cancellations are an unfortunate aspect of MMA but some hurt fans more than others and this is one of those cases.
There are rarely any guarantees in combat sports but with some matchups, they’re certified homeruns from the moment that the two names are put down on paper. That’s exactly what fans were expecting at UFC 313 on March 8 in the five-round co-main event bout between Dan Hooker and Justin Gaethje.
Somehow, two of the most exciting fighters on the roster have never faced off before but this clash came around following the recent resurgence of Hooker. Gaethje may be coming off of a devastating loss to Max Holloway, but the former champion was expected to bring maximum violence to the Octagon.
Dan Hooker withdraws from UFC 313 co-main event clash with Justin Gaethje
Fans may have to wait a bit longer to see this incredible lightweight clash take place inside the Octagon following some incredibly unfortunate UFC 313 news. Australian MMA reporter BenDaMan broke the news on X
In a vlog posted by Dan Hooker’s daughter Zoe shortly before an initial report from ‘Benny P’, he said: “We did have a little break, we have been busy. Dad had a fight, or was supposed to have a fight but I’ve busted my paw.”
The initial report also states that it is unclear at this time whether the fight will be rescheduled for a later date or a new opponent will be found for Justin Gaethje at UFC 313.
From the UFC’s perspective, the promotion’s return to the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is still a strong card, though it may lack some name value outside of the main event if Gaethje doesn’t remain in action on March 8.
Alex Pereira’s light heavyweight title defense against Magomed Ankalaev still makes it an important date in the MMA calendar but losing a potential fight of the year contender never feels good.
Dan Hooker was expecting an all-out war at UFC 313
Dan Hooker has proven time and time again that he is not the kind of competitor that backs down from a challenge or quits when the going gets tough.
‘The Hangman’ was preparing for a battle of the ages with Justin Gaethje and going into that with an already compromised hand was never going to happen, especially considering what Hooker has said in the past about not making smart decisions for his career.
He already told the fans exactly what to expect on March 8 but as it turns out, he’s spent some time on the side lines earlier than expected.
“I know full well, 100 percent, that no matter whether his arm gets raised, my arm gets raised, I’m going straight on a stretcher,” Hooker told ESPN with a smile on his face.
“Straight into the back of an ambulance and I’m going to the hospital. I’ve come to terms with that’s how this night is gonna end baby. I’ve come to terms with that, brother. I’m embracing it.”
Whether it’s the next fight for both men or not, it would be incredibly disappointing to never see this fight at some point down the line.