In an emotional testimony, S. Struve reported health problems. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
After going through a series of health problems, the heavyweight (up to 120,2 kg.) of Ultimate, Stefan struve, decided to retire from MMA. In a long text published on his social networks, the 'Dutch Giant' described the problems throughout his career and thanked his fans for their support over the years.
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“I've been able to use my space and time over the last few months to think about this, so this time it really is for good. I have an inner ear problem that I have been battling since May of last year. I got a viral infection that damaged the auditory nerve in my right ear. After new tests recently, we discovered that the ear's vestibular apparatus is not working well. As a result, I have also been dealing with issues with vertigo, hearing loss, and tinnitus, a ringing in my ear,” Struve wrote.
After carrying out all the tests described, Stefan reveals that he was recovering and thought that the problems would be temporary. However, he says that in his last fight – against Tai tuivasa -, some of the symptoms returned. On that occasion, the Dutchman was knocked out in the first round of the UFC 254, in October 2020.
“I was doing well, especially with the doctors telling me that the problems would go away after a while, just keep going and ignore it until they actually went away completely. Unfortunately, during my last fight, some of the problems returned after receiving a punch to the right ear”, added the fighter.
Struve ended the statement by reporting that he experienced other difficulties with surgeries and recoveries during his career and thanked MMA fans for their encouragement throughout his 15-year career.
“I realize it’s time to hang up the gloves for good and put my health and family first. I had a long career and battled numerous injuries, including a broken jaw and heart problems. (…) I am very grateful for the career and the treatment I received in the UFC. Everyone in the organization has always been amazing to me. But I have to put my health first now, especially now that I'm a father. To the fight fans, I've had a lot of fun over the years, it was an honor to fight for you”, he concluded.
The 'Dutch Giant' puts an end to his career just when he is going through his most difficult moment in MMA. His record has 29 wins and 13 losses. However, in the last six fights, he suffered five setbacks in his last six UFC fights.
What's up everyone. I got an announcement to make today. It was a little too long so I had to improvise, you can read more in the attachment. I have decided to retire from professional fighting. Thank you all for the support 🙏🏻❤️ pic.twitter.com/z2eZAALUoP
— Stefan struve (@StefanStruve) February 15, 2021
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