Joe Riggs out of UFC Fight Night: Brasilia bout after accidental shooting

Diposkan oleh silent aja 4:27 AM Post a Comment

The injury bug rarely bites harder than this.

Looks like Joe Riggs' UFC return is on hold after the fighter suffered an accidental gunshot wound on Monday night. According to the official UFC press release, Riggs was taken to the hospital after accidentally shooting himself in the hand and thigh while cleaning one of his firearms. He is reportedly currently undergoing treatment.

Scheduled to return to the Octagon in Brasilia, Brazil on September 13 against Paulo Thiago, veteran Joe 'Diesel' Riggs's first UFC bout since 2006 has been put on hold after an accident at Riggs' home in Arizona Monday night.

The UFC released the following statement on the incident.

'We were made aware that newly-signed UFC competitor Joe Riggs was involved in an unfortunate accident last night. While cleaning his permitted firearm (a pistol), the gun discharged, injuring his hand and upper thigh. Riggs was transported to a nearby hospital in Arizona where he is being treated by physicians. We wish Joe a speedy recovery.'

A replacement opponent for Thiago is being sought and will be announced shortly.

Riggs is on a six fight winning streak since a 2011 ProElite loss to Kendall Grove, one that capped the first losing streak of his career. Most recently he was crowned 'Fight Master' off the one season run of Bellator's reality TV show of the same name. He secured his release from Bellator shortly thereafter and was expected to return to the UFC as a short notice replacement for Mike Rhodes against Paulo Thiago. No word on Riggs expected time of recovery, but I think it's safe to assume he'll be gunning for a quick return from injury.