UFC 303 Highlights
Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler Cancelled
The UFC 303 fight card has undergone significant changes just weeks before the International Fight Week event in Las Vegas. The much-anticipated main event between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler has been cancelled, causing a major reshuffle of the lineup.
McGregor’s Highly Anticipated Return Derailed
Former double champion Conor McGregor was set to make a triumphant return to the Octagon, facing Michael Chandler on June 29th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This fight marked McGregor’s comeback since his last bout at UFC 264 in July 2021, where he suffered a loss to Dustin Poirier and a subsequent leg break.
Initially, McGregor was expected to fight Chandler last year after both served as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) 31: Team McGregor vs. Team Chandler, which aired from May 30 to August 15, 2023. However, McGregor’s prolonged recovery delayed the bout. The Irish fighter’s withdrawal from the scheduled fight due to an injury has once again thwarted fans’ hopes of seeing him back in action.
Pereira vs. Prochazka Steps Up as New Main Event
In response to McGregor’s withdrawal, UFC has appointed a new main event for UFC 303. Light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira will now defend his title against Jiri Prochazka. This matchup is a significant rematch, as Pereira previously defeated Prochazka at UFC 295 to claim the vacant 205-pound belt.
Pereira, known for his powerful striking and kickboxing background, has quickly made a name for himself in the light heavyweight division. His victory over Prochazka was a defining moment, and this rematch promises to be a thrilling encounter as Prochazka seeks to reclaim his title.
New Co-Main Event: Ortega vs. Lopes
The changes didn’t stop at the main event. The co-main event also saw a shake-up after Jamahal Hill withdrew from his fight against Carlos Ulberg due to a knee injury. Featherweight contenders Brian Ortega and Diego Lopes have stepped in to take over the co-main event spot.
Brian Ortega, a former title challenger, is known for his exceptional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills and resilience. Diego Lopes, a rising star in the featherweight division, is eager to make a statement against a seasoned opponent like Ortega. This matchup is expected to be a high-stakes bout with significant implications for the featherweight rankings.
Carlos Ulberg vs. Anthony Smith
Carlos Ulberg, originally set to fight Jamahal Hill, remains on the UFC 303 card and will now face Anthony Smith in a light heavyweight bout. Ulberg, a promising talent from New Zealand, has shown impressive striking abilities and is looking to climb the ranks in the division. Anthony Smith, a seasoned veteran and former title challenger, brings a wealth of experience and toughness to the Octagon. This fight is anticipated to be a clash of styles, with Ulberg’s dynamic striking against Smith’s well-rounded skill set.
Dana White Shares Updated Lineup
UFC CEO Dana White took to his social media handles earlier this week to share an image of the updated UFC 303 lineup. The changes, although unexpected, have added fresh excitement and intrigue to the event. Fans are now looking forward to the new main event and co-main event matchups, along with the other thrilling bouts on the card.
UFC 303 Fight Card
Aside from the major bouts, UFC 303 features several other exciting matchups. The fight card showcases a mix of veteran fighters and rising stars across various weight classes, ensuring a night filled with high-octane action and memorable moments.
Here’s the current fight card for UFC 303:
Main Event (Light Heavyweight Championship):
- Alex Pereira (c) vs. Jiri Prochazka
Co-Main Event (Featherweight):
- Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes
Other Bouts:
- Light Heavyweight: Anthony Smith vs. Carlos Ulberg
- Women’s Bantamweight: Mayra Bueno Silva vs. Macy Chiasson
- Welterweight: Ian Machado Garry vs. Michael Page
- Middleweight: Joe Pyfer vs. Marc-Andre Barriault (opponent change)
- Featherweight: Cub Swanson vs. Andre Fili
- Featherweight: Charles Jourdain vs. Jean Silva
- Bantamweight: Payton Talbott vs. Yanis Ghemmouri
- Women’s Strawweight: Michelle Waterson-Gomez vs. Gillian Robertson
- Flyweight: Rei Tsuruya vs. Carlos Hernandez
The reshuffled UFC 303 fight card, highlighted by the new main event between Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka, and the co-main event featuring Brian Ortega and Diego Lopes, promises an action-packed night. While Conor McGregor’s withdrawal due to injury is disappointing, the UFC has successfully put together a lineup that will captivate fans and deliver exciting matchups across the board. As always, UFC 303 is set to provide unforgettable moments and high-stakes action in the world of mixed martial arts.