UFC 313: Hooker Withdraws, Gaethje Seeks New Opponent
The search for a new opponent for Gaethje is underway, with several fighters offering to step in on short notice. As the UFC works to finalize a new matchup, fans are left wondering who will face Gaethje at UFC 313 and whether the event will still deliver the thrilling contest that was expected.
Dan Hooker's withdrawal from his highly anticipated bout against Justin Gaethje at UFC 313 due to a hand injury has left the event without a key matchup, with the UFC facing a challenge in finding a suitable replacement on short notice.
The lightweight fighter from New Zealand was scheduled to face Gaethje on March 8, but his injury has forced him to pull out, leaving fans disappointed and eager for a new opponent to be announced. Hooker had previously acknowledged the physical toll of facing Gaethje, stating that he expected to be injured regardless of the outcome.
Several fighters, including Rafael Fiziev and Renato Moicano, have offered to step in and face Gaethje at UFC 313. Moicano, who was coming off a loss, believes he can be ready for the fight with only 2-3 sparring sessions and is motivated by the potential payday. The UFC has not officially confirmed Hooker's exit, but a video blog suggested he pulled out due to a hand injury.
As the UFC works to find a new opponent for Gaethje, fans are suggesting alternative matchups, including Gaethje vs. Ilia Topuria, Gaethje vs. Moicano, and Gaethje vs. Poirier. With less than two weeks until the event, the UFC faces a challenge in finding a suitable replacement, but the potential for a thrilling new matchup has fans eagerly awaiting the announcement.
