Dixon sustained the injury in last week's 45-point loss against Fremantle, but was expected to play the Demons.
However, Gold Coast made the change on Friday, elevating untried rookie Clay Cameron into the 25-man squad.
The squad will be trimmed to 22 later on Friday afternoon.
Just two weeks ago Dixon played the best game of his career in kicking a club-record six goals against GWS.
His absence adds to that of Karmichael Hunt, who will miss the match at the MCG with a low-grade hamstring injury.
Michael Rischitelli was omitted from the team after a slow start to the season, while Campbell Brown has been included after serving a six-match suspension.
Michael Whiting covers Gold Coast news for AFL.com.au. Follow him on Twitter: @AFL_mikewhiting