Velasquez (photo) suffered back problems and was cut from UFC 196. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC
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On Sunday night, less than two weeks before UFC 196, the former UFC champion Cain Velazquez was cut from the rematch against Fabricio Werdum due to a new injury. After the announcement of his replacement in the duel by Stipe Miocic, Velasquez took to social media and opened up about yet another injury in his career. In his publication, the American apologized to Werdum and promised to return to face the Brazilian.
“I'm sure you've heard the news that I won't be able to fight at UFC 196. I can't even begin to tell you how disappointed I am and how I feel about disappointing you. (…) Fabricio, I hope you accept my most sincere apologies. I understand that you might see this as an excuse not to fight. From one professional to another, I can tell you that I was committed and looking to compete against you again. I have the utmost respect for you, as a fighter and a man, and we will meet soon,” said Cain.
At 33, Cain Velazquez has a professional MMA record of 13 wins and two losses. Velasquez was heavyweight champion twice, but both times he lost the title to Brazilians. First, after hitting Brock Lesnar, the North American was knocked out by Junior Gypsy. Then, after getting back at Cigano, Cain was submitted by Fabricio Werdum in June last year.
Check out Velasquez’s post in full below:
I'm sure you've heard the news that I won't be able to fight at UFC 196. I can't even begin to tell you how disappointed I am and how I feel about disappointing you. I have heard and read all the messages of support since my last fight and throughout this camp, so I would like to thank you for that.
Training camp has been tough the last few weeks, but sometimes, no matter how much your heart and mind wants to overcome an injury, recovery takes its own time. We thought we could overcome, but we had to accept the truth that I wouldn't be ok in time to fight.
All of us fighters have struggled with injuries at one time or another, but I can't ignore this injury, just as my doctor has already indicated that not looking into the problems with my sciatic nerve could have long-term consequences.
My fans deserve to see me compete as close to 100% as possible. I'm committed to delivering that to them. I won't disappoint my fans and I want to make sure I do the right things to have a long career.
Fabrício, I hope you accept my most sincere apologies. I understand that you might see this as an excuse not to fight. From one professional to another, I can tell you that I was committed and looking to compete against you again. I have the utmost respect for you, as a fighter and a man, and we will meet soon.
I will take care of this as soon as possible. I will heal and I will return to show you what Cain Velazquez that you all deserve to see.
Sincerely,
Cain
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