Sonnen's daughter is born prematurely and struggles to survive

C. Sonnen. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC

See too

Sonnen defends Wand in case of doping test leak: 'He had the right to say no'

Chael Sonnen opens the door to a trilogy with Anderson Silva

Sonnen admits the possibility of returning to MMA if he passes an anti-doping test

Chael Sonnen, one of the most controversial figures in MMA, is going through great personal drama. The former fighter's wife gave birth prematurely to the couple's daughter, who now faces a battle to survive.

Sonnen's wife, Brittany, contracted the listeria bacteria in the final stretch of her pregnancy, which resulted in the premature birth of their daughter last Friday (12), about ten weeks earlier than expected. The contamination also passed to the child, named Blauna Dian Sonnen.

Listeria is typically transmitted by eating contaminated food. Speaking to the North American website “MMA Fighting”, Sonnen stated that he does not know how his wife contracted the bacteria, but will take all measures to investigate the case.

The 39-year-old American has been away from MMA since November 2013, when he had his last fight – he was defeated by Rashad evans by technical knockout. After that, Sonnen was caught in a series of drug tests and received a suspension that expired in early August. The athlete considered returning to MMA, but it is not yet known whether the personal drama will affect his plans.

Poatan in danger? Veteran calls for 'war' and believes in victory against Brazilian in UFC