New Zealand MMA figter Dan Hooker. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Kiwi fighter Dan Hooker has withdrawn from next month's UFC 313 lightweight fight against Justin Gaethje.
Hooker disclosed a hand injury in a video with his daughter that was posted on YouTube.
"Dad had a fight, or was supposed to have a fight, but I've busted my paw," the New Zealander said.
Hooker (24-12) had been scheduled for a five-round bout with American Gaethje (25-5) in Las Vegas on 8 March.
Hooker, 35, is on a three-fight win streak, most recently a split decision against Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 305 in Perth, Australia, in August 2024.
Gaethje, 36, last fought in April 2024 when he was knocked out by Max Holloway in the fifth round at UFC 300 in Las Vegas.
UFC officials have not commented on Hooker's withdrawal or announced whether Gaethje will remain on the card.
The main event of the UFC 313 card is a light heavyweight title fight between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev.
-Reuters
