Cigano (left) strikes Miocic (right) in the main fight of UFC on FOX 13. Photo: Josh Hedges/Getty Images
Friend and training partner junior gypsy, Antonio Shoe Guy confirmed that the former heavyweight champion had a severe injury just a few days before his fight against Stipe Miocic, on December 13th.
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Initially, the information was made public through Rodrigo Minotauro, who made the revelation during the fight's television broadcast. Then, both Cigano and his coach, Dedé Pederneiras, denied the existence of the injury. Although, Shoe Face stated that the heavyweight had an injured knee in the final stretch of his training for the fight.
“In reality, it was a camp very difficult for him. A lot of people don't know, but he was really hurt. His knee was really bad. Two weeks before the fight, he couldn't even step on the ground. But he's a very brave guy and he said, 'I'm going to fight no matter what. I haven't fought for a year and two months. Give me a way to fight,’” he said. Shoe Face, in a press conference during UFC Barueri.
However, the TUF Brasil 3 champion made a point of praising Miocic, who was defeated by Cigano in a tough fight by the judges' decision. “Without a doubt, this got in the way a lot, but we can’t forget that Miocic is a very good guy. He only lost to [Stefan] Struve, and I think if he faced him again he would win and win very well,” he commented.
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