A month ago, UFC 303 was touted as the event of the year, featuring the much-anticipated return of Conor McGregor, Jamahal Hill in the co-main event, and the iconic setting of Las Vegas.
However, the first blow came when Khalil Rountree, Hill’s opponent, tested positive for a banned substance (DHEA), leading to his removal from the fight.
Carlos Ulberg stepped in as a replacement, offering a solution that was as good as, if not better than, the original match-up.
Despite this initial hiccup, the past two weeks have seen the card completely upended. Rumors of an injury to McGregor were confirmed, taking the Irishman out of his headline bout against Michael Chandler.
Almost simultaneously, it was announced that Jamahal Hill had also sustained an injury, leaving the two main fights of the night in jeopardy.
Big Problems, Big Solutions
Dana White responded swiftly, announcing three new fights in a video update. In the new main event, Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka will face off for the light heavyweight title for the second time in less than a year.
In their first encounter, ‘Poatan’ knocked out the Czech fighter in the second round with his now-famous left hook.
Anthony Smith had offered to fight Ulberg, but with that fight not holding as much weight, White had to reshuffle the card.
The new co-main event is now Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes, with Smith vs. Ulberg moved to the third spot. However, today’s news revealed that Ulberg is also injured, putting this already cursed fight back in limbo.
Dolidze: Another Unexpected Hero
Anthony Smith was already seen as a hero for accepting such a dangerous fight on short notice. Now, Roman Dolidze has raised the stakes even further.
The Georgian middleweight fighter is reportedly willing to move up a division to fight Smith on short notice, just a week before the event.
Dolidze is coming off a tough loss against Nassourdine Imavov, but accepting this fight would likely earn both fighters a significant financial reward from Dana White.
Whether the fight happens or not, it’s clear that this bout has been plagued with issues, having seen up to five different fighters involved at various points.
This has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging months in the company’s history regarding injuries, resulting in significant financial losses.
As UFC 303 approaches, the organization is working tirelessly to ensure the event remains a success despite the numerous setbacks.
Fans and fighters alike are eager to see how the final card shapes up and whether these last-minute changes can deliver an unforgettable night of fights.