Dan Hooker Undergoes Hand Surgery After Withdrawing From UFC 313

In a significant turn of events for the UFC lightweight division, Dan Hooker has undergone hand surgery following an injury that forced him to withdraw from his highly anticipated co-main event bout against Justin Gaethje at UFC 313. The surgery was necessitated by a fracture in Hooker’s left hand, which he revealed through a heartfelt post on Instagram. This news comes as a disappointment not only to Hooker but also to fans who were eager to see him continue his momentum after a successful run in the octagon.

Dan Hooker did the surgery for his broken hand.

Wish him a speedy recovery and a quick return to the Octagon! 💪🔥 #UFC pic.twitter.com/PkDWOtct1k

— MMA Pros Pick (@MMA_PROS_PICK_) March 3, 2025

Hooker, known as “The Hangman,” has been a staple in the lightweight rankings and was looking to extend his winning streak to four fights. His recent victories include impressive performances against Claudio Puelles, Jalin Turner, and a Fight of the Night battle against Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 305 last August. Each of these fights showcased Hooker’s striking prowess and resilience, solidifying his reputation as one of the most exciting fighters in the division. However, the injury has put a halt to his aspirations for a title shot, at least for the time being.

The Impact on UFC 313 and Justin Gaethje’s Next Steps

With Hooker out of the picture, Justin Gaethje will still compete at UFC 313 but will face Rafael Fiziev instead. This matchup is particularly intriguing as Gaethje previously defeated Fiziev by majority decision at UFC 286, making this a highly anticipated rematch. Gaethje’s ability to adapt and strategize against opponents has been well-documented, and he will likely look to capitalize on his previous victory while also seeking to maintain his position as a top contender in the lightweight division.

Rafael Fiziev is grateful for the opportunity to fight Justin Gaethje again. 🙌🔥

via: @arielhelwani / #UFC313 #MMA pic.twitter.com/AMe30d6CiS

— MMA Pros Pick (@MMA_PROS_PICK_) March 3, 2025

The absence of Hooker from this card not only alters the dynamics of UFC 313 but also raises questions about how this will affect the lightweight rankings moving forward. With fighters like Gaethje and Fiziev vying for title contention, Hooker’s injury could create opportunities for others to leapfrog him in the standings. The lightweight division is notoriously competitive, and any extended absence can lead to significant shifts in ranking and opportunities.

For Hooker, this surgery represents more than just a physical setback; it is a test of his mental fortitude as well. The fighter has always been known for his tenacity and determination inside the octagon, qualities that will be essential as he navigates this challenging period in his career. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he recovers and what steps he takes upon his return.

In conclusion, Dan Hooker’s hand surgery is a significant moment in the lightweight division that underscores the unpredictable nature of mixed martial arts. While injuries are an unfortunate reality for fighters, they also serve as reminders of their resilience and dedication to their craft. As Hooker begins his recovery journey, both he and his supporters will be hoping for a swift return to action so he can continue his pursuit of greatness within one of the most challenging weight classes in the sport.