McGregor out of UFC 303, Ulberg gets new opponent

Conor McGregor Photo: Photosport

Injuries have dealt a major blow to UFC 303 which is set to feature kiwi light heavyweight Carlos Ulberg.

The highly anticipated return of the notorious Conor McGregor is off, with the former two division champion withdrawing from the card with injury.

Dana White dropped the bombshell on his Instagram earlier today.

McGregor was set to fight 'Iron' Michael Chandler in what would have been his first walk to the octagon since snapping his leg against Dustin Poirier back in 2021.

Rumours had been rife after the Dublin press conference was cancelled for undisclosed reasons.

A new main event has been announced with a rematch for the light-heavyweight championship between title holder Alex Periera and Jiri Procházka.

Adding to the drama, Ulberg will no longer fight former champion Jamhal Hill in the co-main event with the American pulling out with a knee injury.

The 10th ranked Anthony Smith - one spot above Ulberg - will step up to take on the City Kick Boxing star who is riding a six-fight winning streak.

"It has been a crazy week here at UFC," White said.