UFC welterweight contender Sean Brady has revealed that a severe health issue forced him to withdraw from his scheduled headlining bout against Gabriel Bonfim at UFC Vegas 124. The fight was set to lead next Saturday’s card before Brady had to step aside.
Staph Infection Forces Main Event Change
Speaking on “The BradyBagz Show,” Brady detailed the medical emergency that left him unable to compete. He explained that his knee began swelling following a training session and rapidly deteriorated over the course of the day.
“My knee was a little bit swollen after (training). By nine o’clock at night, I couldn’t walk. Wednesday morning, I already knew because I’ve been in this situation before. I’ve dealt with bursitis and (expletive) and I knew this wasn’t bursitis. I knew it was an infection… I could barely walk,” Brady said.
Brady confirmed the illness was a staph infection. With the event only a week away, the short notice leaves it uncertain whether the UFC will secure a substitute opponent for Bonfim, putting the Brazilian’s spot on the card in jeopardy as well.
Sympathy for Opponent Gabriel Bonfim
Acknowledging the impact of the late cancellation on his opponent, Brady expressed his regret over the situation. Bonfim had been preparing for an opportunity to advance toward the top rank of the UFC welterweight division.
“I feel for Bonfim too. It sucks, man. I’ve been there where guys pull out, you’re two weeks out and then you don’t know if you’re fighting, you’re looking for a new opponent. I know he was putting in the training camp, trust me, and that’s what sucks. I did a ten-week training camp for this,” Brady said.
Brady will focus on recovering and regaining full health before the UFC can arrange his next matchup in the Octagon.
