L. Rockhold sees the possibility of returning in 2018. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @lukerockhold
Luke Rockhold was scheduled to face Chris Weidman at UFC 230, November 3 in New York (USA). However, two weeks before the event, the fighter was withdrawn from the rematch due to an injury to his left leg. In an interview with the North American podcast Submission Radio, the middleweight stated that he had an infection during training as a result of unsuccessful surgery.
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“The leg injury was a complete nightmare. It was an unsuccessful surgery. Unfortunately, I was deceived by two doctors. I wouldn't say it was negligence, but a bad cut they made on my shin. It felt like a superficial surgery, which is why I went ahead. And it’s definitely been one of the worst things I’ve ever dealt with in my life,” said Luke.
During his training for the rematch with Weidman, Rockhold did not use his left leg to kick. However, when he returned to his home he developed an infection there.
“I didn’t kick. The entire field I didn't use my left leg to shoot. And so, unfortunately, after Vegas, I got an infection on the way home. And then, just as I thought the leg felt better and would be ready to go, it pulled back and opened up. It was red, it was inflamed and it was dangerous because the skin could build up,” Luke said.
While trying to overcome the problem with the injury to his left leg, Luke broke his nose and sprained his right knee. “I broke my nose in a grappling exchange. I got caught with an elbow. And, in addition, I changed my posture to continue working and went to fight with a mask on my face, and I ended up twisting my knee”, said the middleweight.
Rockhold still doesn't have a set date for his return to the Octagon, but he said there is a possibility of fighting at UFC 232, on December 29th.
“I think there’s a chance if something happens, December 29th, it’s not a bad idea. And I know there's a big letter at the beginning of the year. There's a big card on ESPN or something in New York. We'll see. Let’s see how this all plays out,” concluded Rockhold.
At 33 years old, Rockhold is coming off a defeat to Yoel romero at UFC 221 in February this year for the interim middleweight title. The North American has a record of 20 fights with 16 triumphs and four setbacks.
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