The co-main event bout scheduled for UFC Vegas 106 was abruptly cancelled just minutes before the fighters were expected to make their walk to the octagon.
The planned matchup between Paul Craig and Rodolfo Bellato was removed from the fight card due to a medical issue affecting Bellato, which rendered him unable to compete. The unfortunate news was announced live during the event broadcast on Saturday night.
Bellato later shared the specific reason for the cancellation on his Instagram account, stating, “I never thought that herpes would take me out of a fight. I’m sorry all of you guys, but it’s something that’s out of our control.”
Despite the last-minute cancellation, the promotion is expected to reschedule the fight between Craig and Bellato for a future event in the near future.
This situation is clearly difficult for both athletes, especially considering Bellato traveled from Brazil and Craig made the journey to Las Vegas from his home in Scotland for the fight.
Rodolfo Bellato, who holds an undefeated record in his first two UFC appearances, was aiming for his most significant career win against Craig. His professional mixed martial arts record currently stands at 12-2-1, with the draw occurring against Jimmy Crute at UFC 312 back in February.
For Paul Craig, this fight was intended as his return to the light heavyweight division after experiencing a three-fight losing streak at middleweight (185 pounds). Those recent losses came against tough opponents Bo Nickal, Caio Borralho, and Brendan Allen.
With the removal of Craig vs. Bellato, the lightweight fight featuring Sodiq Yusuff and Mairon Santos was elevated to the co-main event position for UFC Vegas 106. An official date for the rescheduled Craig vs. Bellato fight is anticipated to be announced soon.
