Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jan Blachowicz explained why he had to withdraw from his rematch with Alexander Rakich, which was scheduled to take place on January 20 at the UFC 297 tournament in Toronto, Canada.
“It’s difficult to express my feelings because it’s a mixture of sadness and anger. Quitting a fight due to injury is one of the most difficult decisions a fighter can make. However, sometimes there is no other choice, especially if you are fighting a fighter from the top 5.
Instead of getting in shape, I fight pain every workout. I did my best, but my shoulders need surgery. Continuing to prepare and go into battle in such a state would be irresponsible and stupid,” wrote 40-year-old Blachowicz in X.
Let us remember that Blachowicz and Rakic fought in May last year. The Pole was then awarded a victory by technical knockout in the third round after the Austrian suffered a knee injury.
