The chaos surrounding UFC 303 will be etched in the promotion’s history as one of the most logistically challenging events. Diego Lopes emerged victorious over last-minute opponent Dan Ige in a hard-fought battle, salvaging a co-main event that underwent multiple reworks.
Lopes showcased his skills with a strong performance in the first and second rounds, but Ige fought back valiantly in the third, landing some heavy blows. The fight was only made possible when Ige stepped in on short notice to replace Brian Ortega, who withdrew due to illness.
Despite the last-minute nature of the fight, Ige was well-prepared as he was already scheduled to fight in Las Vegas in three weeks. The bout, held at a catchweight of 165 pounds, was approved by the Nevada State Athletic Commission due to Ige’s up-to-date medical records.
Both fighters, Lopes and Ige, displayed remarkable resilience and willingness to step up to the challenge. The loss did not diminish Ige’s reputation, as he earned praise for his courage. The event generated $15.9 million in gate revenue, making it the fourth-highest in UFC history.
The journey was not easy for Lopes either, as he had to adapt to multiple changes in opponents and weight classes. However, he remained unfazed by the chaos, emphasizing his readiness to face any challenge.
Looking ahead, both fighters expressed their desire to compete in the upcoming UFC 306 card at The Sphere in September, further solidifying their standing with the promotion.
UFC 303 was marked by several withdrawals, including Conor McGregor and Jamahal Hill, leading to last-minute changes in the main and co-main events. Despite the challenges, the event showcased the resilience and adaptability of the fighters, as they navigated through the tumultuous circumstances.