UFC 175: Stefan Struve Pulled From Fight Due To Medical Conditions

UFC 175 makes headlines today because the fight between Stefan Struve and Matt Mitrione has been canceled and will not take place at UFC 175. Fox Sports was able to confirm the cancellation of the fight thanks to UFC officials. The fight was canceled due to Struve blacking out and having an elevated heart rate. Once UFC officials confirmed Struve was unable to fight, UFC released a statement saying:

” Stefan Struve suffered a non-life threatening, near-fainting spell backstage. Afterwards, the medical team did not feel he was fit to compete. With his health and safety in mind, He’s been removed from the card and is currently under the care of the medical staff. We will provide further updates as they become available.”

UFC president Dana White did confirm that Stefan Struve was dealing with heart palpitations and because of that fact, it led them them to believe he had a panic attack, but he was sent to the hospital immediately to be treated. Of course Stefan Struve was disappointed that the fight was canceled due to his condition. Struve released a statement saying:

” Tonight during my warm up prior to my scheduled fight with Matt Mitrione at UFC 175, I began experiencing discomfort and anxiety. However, given my extended layoff as a result of my recent medical issues and the passing of my father, I dismissed my physical and emotional feelings as nothing more as nervousness. Unfortunately, as my warm up progressed, I collapsed in the locker room. After consulting the UFC and the doctors, the determination was made that in abundance of caution I should not be allowed to compete.

While, I am deeply disappointed that I was not able to perform for myself and the fans, I respect the decision and know that my health is the most important issue. I want to thank the UFC, Dana White, Lorenza Fertita, Burt Watson, and the Nevada State Athletic Commission and Dr. Jeff Davidson for putting my safety first and showing tremendous compassion and empathy in a difficult situation. I also want to apologize to Matt Mitrione, he spent long months preparing to compete and was not able to do so. I want to thank my team, coaches, management and family for their unwavering support. Finally, I want to thank the fans for being by my side and supporting me throughout my career. I will take some time to myself to evaluate my health and career. Thank you for the support and understanding.”

Struve did have previous issues with his heart before. Struve had just returned to the Octagon after more than half a year off, after it was discovered he was suffering from a leaking aortic valve and an enlarged heart. He had to sit out until he had a clean bill of health. Once he was deemed healthy enough he returned to the Octagon.

However, this was definitely the right call, and I’m sure we will find another fight just as worthy as this one in UFC 175.

[ Image Via cagepages.com ]