In the world of MMA, last-minute fight changes are common. But what happened at UFC 303 was truly unprecedented. A fight was arranged with just four hours’ notice. Diego Lopes and Dan Ige stepped into the Octagon, unprepared for each other. Both these guys had been preparing for different opponents.
Dan Ige and Diego Lopes found themselves in an unexpected co-main event. The matchup was so last-minute, that it required intervention from Nevada’s highest office. Eric Nicksick, Dan Ige’s coach, revealed the extraordinary circumstances. He spoke about what it took to set the fight up on The MMA Hour.
Jeff Mullin is ok to sign off on this and then it had to go up to the Governor. The Governor had to like sign off on this.
Eric Nicksick via The MMA Hour
The laws governing combat sports are in place, but this level of governmental involvement at this level of fight scheduling is unheard of. It speaks to the unique situation UFC 303 found itself in. The event had been plagued by cancellations and changes. Conor McGregor‘s withdrawal was just the tip of the iceberg.
Lopes was initially set to face Brian Ortega at 145, which was then changed to 155 lbs. But the fight fell through due to Ortega getting sick. Dan Ige stepped up on just 4 hours’ notice. Even though he lost the bout, he left the Octagon a huge fan favorite. Dana White even revealed that he would honor both the fighters’ wishes to be on the Sphere card.
Dan Ige has some kind words aimed at Diego Lopes
In MMA, some fights are months in the making. Others, as Dan Ige recently discovered, come together in mere hours. UFC 303 threw a curveball that left fans and fighters alike stunned. Ige found himself in a co-main event bout with just four hours’ notice.
Diego Lopes and Dan Ige (via ESPN) His opponent was none other than Diego Lopes, a rising star who was equally unprepared for the matchup. The fight was a last-minute addition to save a crumbling card. Despite the rushed circumstances, both men put on a show for the ages. Lopes emerged victorious, but Ige’s performance was nothing short of admirable. Ige took to social media with a statement that oozed class. He praised Lopes and reflected on the unique experience.
Love you all. Not every day you get to dare to do something great. @Diegolopesmma you’re a stud. Not many people would do what you did, especially what you went through the last 24 hours. I’m glad we got to elevate each other and make history. See you guys soon 🔮 #4hours
Dan Ige via X
Love you all. Not every day you get to dare to do something great. @Diegolopesmma you’re a stud. Not many people would do what you did, especially what you went through the last 24 hours. I’m glad we got to elevate each other and make history. See you guys soon 🔮 #4hours pic.twitter.com/gvB2DCYVDG
— Dan Ige (@Dynamitedan808) June 30, 2024
Ige’s praise for Lopes was particularly touching. The Hawaiian fighter recognized the rarity of their shared experience. Ige’s sportsmanship shone through as he celebrated their joint accomplishment. This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of MMA. Fighters must always be prepared for the unexpected.
