UFC fighters often live on the thin line between glory and danger. Last weekend, Harrell experienced this harsh reality firsthand when he suffered a "brutal" knockout in his first career loss against Jacobe Smith at the Houston event.
In the decisive moment, the referee's delayed intervention resulted in Harrell taking additional facial blows after falling to the canvas. The American fighter briefly lost consciousness and was immediately transported to the hospital.
During the post-event press conference, UFC President Dana White openly expressed his concern. He stated, "That was one of the worst knockouts I've seen in a long time. I don't remember the last time I had to say, 'Damn, this isn't good'."
White reported that Harrell took a while to regain consciousness, but initial signs were positive. "He needs time to recover. He seems okay for now, but we will monitor him overnight," he added.
One day after the fight, Harrell updated his personal page, stating he sustained a few facial injuries. "Thank you to everyone who sent encouraging messages. This is just a stumble. We have a few facial fractures, but God is still good. Don't let fear stop you from becoming anything. I will be back," the American fighter wrote.
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Jacobe Smith locks in a submission and punches Josiah Harrell in the face at UFC Houston on 21/2. Photo: Zuffa LLC |
Nevertheless, fans remained concerned upon learning of Harrell's medical history. Previously, during a routine medical examination in preparation for a fight against Jack Della Maddalena, he was diagnosed with Moyamoya syndrome, a rare condition where arteries supplying blood to the brain narrow or become blocked.
Harrell underwent a 9-hour surgery where doctors grafted two additional veins into his skull and placed a titanium plate to protect the damaged brain area. For many, such an ordeal would be enough to end a high-level fighting career. However, Harrell chose to return to the octagon, continuing to pursue his MMA dream.
The fight night in Houston also saw several other harrowing incidents. Fighter Ramiz Brahimaj was hospitalized for a CT scan after 15 minutes of heavy blows from Puna Soriano.
In the women's division, French fighter Nora Cornolle screamed in pain after being taken down and submitted by Joselyne Edwards. Cornolle reportedly sustained severe shoulder and collarbone injuries.
It was an intense Fight Night, where the line between courage and danger became thinner than ever.
By Hong Duy (via Daily Mail)
