G. Mousasi facing R. Lovato. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @mousasi
The world of MMA was saddened after Bellator's middleweight champion (up to 83,9kg), Rafael Lovato, revealed that he suffers from a rare disease (caveronoma) that will prevent him from continuing his career in the sport for an indefinite period of time. Rival of the North American in his last fight, Gegard Mousasi, who lost the title to the fighter, left the rivalry aside and, in an interview with 'MMA Junkie', sent a message of support to the athlete.
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“I always liked him, and I still do. He's a guy I can become friends with. We had to face each other and I lost. I wanted the rematch, I really wanted to win to prove my point. As a person, he is humble and respectful. I feel bad for him. He can no longer compete. When I sprained my ligament I felt something similar. But his case is even worse because it might mean the end of his career. I wish him all the best,” Gegard said.
On the 10th, after making her illness public, Lovato showed maturity and gave up the belt, making it clear that she will dedicate herself exclusively to treating her illness. Thinking about the progress of the category, the Bellator board announced the fight between Mousasi and the Brazilian Douglas lima, for the vague title. The confrontation will take place on May 9, in the United States.
Because it is a rare disease, which promotes irregular development of blood vessels in the brain, doctors recommended that Rafael stay away from the sport. In a recent interview, the fighter stated that he will try to return to the sport, but that he is already planning to work behind the scenes at Bellator, if he does not receive authorization to return to the cage.
Currently 36 years old, Lovato has 10 fights as a professional in MMA. The fighter is undefeated on his record.
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