Failed weight cut forces major change to UFC 303 co-main event

Brian Ortega is getting his move to lightweight started a few months early.

Unfortunately, featherweight opponent Diego Lopes did not find out until late last night. In addition, handlers for “T-City” informed the promotion that Ortega would need to abandon his cut to 145 pounds and begin rehydrating — or be forced to withdraw from UFC 303.

That’s according to Ariel Helwani.

Lopes accepted the reworked fight and will be compensated for the change in weight classes, according to the report. Both fighters weighed in today at 155 pounds during the UFC 303 early weigh ins (get full results and video here) and will face off at the ceremonial festivities later tonight.

Another “cursed” card?

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’McGREGOR-FREE MAIN EVENT! Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) returns to T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Sat., June 29, 2024, without its biggest box office draw, Conor McGregor, after the Irish sports star delayed the “greatest comeback of all-time” because he broke his pinky toe (seriously). Coming the rescue once again is Light Heavyweight champion, Alex Pereira, agreeing to rematch former division champion, Jiri Prochazka, in the pay-per-view (PPV) main event. In UFC 303’s co-headliner, top-ranked Featherweight contender, Brian Ortega, will attempt to halt the rise of red-hot surging 145-pound prospect, Diego Lopes. UFC 303’s PPV main card (see it here) will also feature Anthony Smith vs. Roman Dolidze and Ian Garry vs. Michael “Venom” Page and so much more. It’s must-watch action! UFC 303 start time scheduled for 6 p.m. ET (Prelims) and 10 p.m. ET (PPV).

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To check out the latest and greatest UFC 303: “Pereira vs. Prochazka 2” news and notes be sure to hit up our comprehensive event archive right here. For the updated and finalized UFC 303 fight card and PPV lineup click here.