Tyron Woodley is as disappointed as anyone about having to pull out of his UFC on ESPN 3 rematch with Robbie Lawler.

Woodley, the former UFC welterweight champion, was looking to get back on track to a title shot by facing off with the man he defeated to claim the belt back in 2016. But a hand injury was the reason behind his withdrawal on Friday.

By late afternoon, Woodley (19-4-1 MMA, 9-3-1 UFC) went on Instagram Live and talked about his situation.

The former champ made it clear that he’s dealt with hand issues in the past and fought through them when he’s had to. But at this stage of his career, he’s not willing to risk it unless absolutely necessary.

Here are Woodley’s comments from his IG Live:

A lot of questions about my hand and me not fighting June 29. I don’t know if they’re going to reschedule me and Robbie for a different date or if they’re going to actually get him a new opponent, but I got to make sure I protect my hand. That’s where I make the money with. I have to be confident throwing my moneymaker, my right hand. I toughed it through the last fight, guys, a lot of (expletive) tape. This time around I’ve got to be honest with myself. The gripping, the grabbing, the posting, the pushing off, the strength, the snapping – all of the above was a little bit more difficult. I’m going to make sure I put myself in position to be successful. At the end of the day, I got to get that belt back. I’ve got to put myself in the best position.”

While there’s not yet an indication which way the UFC will go with Lawler (28-13 MMA, 13-7 UFC), it seemed the entire welterweight division was volunteering to step in throughout the day Friday.

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