Derrick Lewis has revealed that chronic back problems, combined with rapid weight regain after weigh-ins, were behind his last-minute withdrawals from previous bouts. Lewis promised fans he will not pull out this time and will deliver against Josh Hooker, adding that he has not watched any of Hooker's fights and knows little about him beyond what his coaches have shared.
Derrick Lewis has spoken publicly about the physical issues that forced him out of multiple recent bouts, pledging that fans will not see another withdrawal when he faces Josh Hooker at UFC White House on June 14.
Lewis, known as The Black Beast, disclosed that a combination of chronic back problems and rapid weight regain following weigh-ins were the primary factors behind his last-minute scratches. He assured supporters he is committed to seeing this fight through.
At 41 years old, Lewis carries a professional record of 29-14 and is currently ranked eighth in the UFC heavyweight division. The Houston native stands six-foot-three with a 79-inch reach and fights out of an orthodox stance under the banner of Main Street Boxing and Muay Thai. A career-long knockout threat, Lewis lands 2.46 significant strikes per minute at a 49 percent striking accuracy rate, making him one of the most dangerous punchers the division has ever seen.
On his opponent, Lewis was candid, admitting he has not studied any of Hooker's fight footage and is relying almost entirely on what his coaching staff has relayed to him.
Why it matters
- Lewis's back issues and rehydration problems have been a recurring concern; his public acknowledgment adds transparency around his recent inactivity.
- A ranked heavyweight making a firm public commitment to this fight carries real divisional weight, as the top ten picture at 265 pounds remains unsettled.
- The stylistic unknown cuts both ways: Lewis entering with minimal film study is an unusual wrinkle that could affect his game-plan execution on fight night.
Sunday, June 14, 2026
