While 2025 has delivered more than it's fair share of magic moments inside the Octagon already, one fight on the UFC 313 card (scheduled to take place on March 8th) had fight fans the world over licking their lips.
The presence of Dan Hooker (24-12 MMA, 14-8 UFC) and Justin Gaethje (25-5 MMA, 8-5 UFC) in the co-main event slot at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas will likely have overshadowed the main event fight between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev for many fans, given the fact both fighters have consistently delivered the most violent, action-packed fights in the organization throughout their respective careers.
It seems we may have to wait a little longer to see the bout take place however according to Australian MMA reporter BenDaMan, as he tweeted:
"Unfortunate news but per sources Dan Hooker is out of his fight at UFC 313 unknown if Justin Gaethje will get a replacement or if they will rebook it for a later card".
Hooker Points Blame At Injured Hand
In a YouTube video posted by Hooker's daughter Zoe shortly afterwards, the lightweight contender hinted at a hand injury, as 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".
No official word has come from the UFC yet as to whether Gaethje will be given a new opponent or if they will simply re-book the Hooker bout for another date.
Hooker's recent revival in fortunes had elevated him back into the upper echelons of the lightweight rankings and earned him the high-profile matchup with Gaethje. Following a failed attempt at switching to the featherweight division in 2022, the Kiwi returned to his original home at 155 lbs and racked up 3 straight wins to break into the division's top 6.
Gaethje has been a mainstay at the top end of the division for some time. His only defeats in the past 5 years have been in title bouts against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira, while he suffered a heartbreaking knockout loss in the BMF title fight against Max Holloway at UFC 300 last April.
