Featherweight Gaston Bolanos withdraws from UFC Vegas 123 due to a nasty cut and camp injury, with a replacement stepping in.
Ultimate Fighting Championship featherweight Gaston Bolanos has officially withdrawn from his upcoming bout against Francis Marshall. The scheduled featherweight matchup was set to take place on October 31, 2026, inside the Meta Apex facility in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The fighter announced the unfortunate news on social media, revealing a graphic photo of a severe laceration above his eyebrow. According to the statements shared online, the gruesome cut was compounded by an additional undisclosed injury suffered during training camp.
Bolanos was forced to step away from the Halloween fight card because of these physical setbacks, according to information published by COMBAT SPORTS. The promotion has since secured a short-notice replacement to keep Francis Marshall on the upcoming fight lineup.
Gaston Bolanos injury update and social media statement
Bolanos addressed his supporters on Instagram, explaining that the situation was entirely outside of his control. The former Bellator standout emphasized that athletes compete at a very high level and face brutal physical demands during their training preparations.
The 9-5 professional fighter stated that he will now allow his body the necessary time to heal completely. His goal is to return to the Octagon at one hundred percent after recovering from the gruesome laceration and the training camp injury.
Dakota Hope steps in on short notice for UFC Vegas 123
With Gaston Bolanos sidelined, promotional sophomore Dakota Hope has agreed to step in on short notice. Hope will face Francis Marshall in a featherweight showdown at the Meta Apex, looking to secure his first victory inside the organization.
The 29-year-old fighter holds an 11-2 professional record and trains at the 4oz Fight Club alongside notable athletes. He previously suffered a split decision loss to Kai Kamaka III during his promotional debut this past April.
Francis Marshall prepares for a new opponent in Las Vegas
Francis Marshall remains on the UFC Vegas 123 lineup despite the late roster change, shifting focus to his new opponent. The 27-year-old featherweight has successfully found momentum following a difficult stretch early in his career.
Marshall enters the upcoming event riding a two-fight winning streak, having secured victories over Erik Silva and Lucas Brennan. These recent performances have improved his overall professional mixed martial arts record to 10-3.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Gaston Bolanos withdraw from UFC Vegas 123?
Gaston Bolanos withdrew from UFC Vegas 123 due to a severe cut above his eyebrow and an additional undisclosed injury suffered during training camp.
Who is replacing Gaston Bolanos at UFC Vegas 123?
Dakota Hope is stepping in on short notice to replace Gaston Bolanos and face Francis Marshall in a featherweight matchup at the Meta Apex.
When and where is UFC Vegas 123 taking place?
UFC Vegas 123 is scheduled for October 31, 2026, at the Meta Apex facility located in Las Vegas, Nevada.
