The path to UFC 303 has been filled with chaos all around from the withdrawal of Conor McGregor to Jamahal Hill vs. Khalil Rountree devolving into Anthony Smith vs. Roman Dolidze. After Hill’s injury, the UFC booked Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes on just a couple of weeks’ notice to fill in as the new co-main event of UFC 303.
But, as it turns out, even on fight night we’re not safe. There was one major twist we were not prepared for.
On the very day of the card, Dan Ige will be stepping in to face Lopes in the co-main event.
These initial rumors were fueled by tweets from the likes of Ige, Lopes, Ali Abdelaziz, and Erik Nicksick of Xtreme Couture.
So you wanna be a BMF? #UFC303
— Dan Ige (@Dynamitedan808) June 29, 2024
This is going to be the wildest night in UFC history
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) June 30, 2024
Remember, we’re the guys you call when you run out of ideas. #UFC303 #HOTDROP pic.twitter.com/HMM8Y9NBwm
— Eric Nicksick (@Eric_XCMMA) June 30, 2024
Ortega has suffered an illness that has forced him off the card.
Dan Ige Weighed In To Make 165-Pound Fight
The plan was first reported by Ariel Helwani during the UFC 303 prelims. Ige had to execute a last-minute weigh-in at 165 pounds, making the fight a catchweight bout.
This marked the second time the fight has had its weight limit moved after it began as a featherweight contest and moved to 155 pounds when it became untenable for Ortega to make weight.
UFC is trying to book Dan Ige x Diego Lopes tonight, I’m told. It’s not 100% yet.
Ortega is on the verge of having to withdraw. He is sick, sources say.
The plan would be a 165-pound catchweight fight, if it gets over the line.
Ige would have to weigh in tonight.
I…
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) June 30, 2024
Ige last fought in February, knocking out Andre Fili. He had been scheduled to face Chepe Mariscal on July 20 at UFC Vegas 94.
Lopes has won three straight since dropping his UFC debut last year, most recently knocking out Sodiq Yusuff at UFC 300.
