We are just about two weeks removed from UFC 261. An event that proved to be the worst night of Chris Weidman‘s (15-6) professional career. The former middleweight champion felt better than ever leading up to UFC 261.
Weidman had moved to South Carolina and was training regularly with his brother-in-law and UFC welterweight Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson. The former champion looked to be incredible shape ahead of his second fight since returning to the middleweight division.
Weidman explored light heavyweight for one fight before dropping back down to 185. It’s been a rough few years for the former UFC champion, but he still believes that he’s one of the best in the world and he was excited to show that.
Standing in front of Weidman was Uriah Hall (17-9). Hall has finally realized some of his potential and he’s been surging as of late. The two men fought very early in their careers with Weidman picking up the TKO victory.
Weidman was confident that he would once again win at UFC 261. When the fight started, Weidman looked incredibly focused. He threw a vicious leg kick to start his striking.
Weidman told ESPN’s Ariel Helwani that in the moment he thought he hurt Hall. Weidman said, “The first thing that went through my mind was, that was a super hard leg kick. He’s (Hall) not taking more than one or two of those.”
After that, things get blurry for the former UFC champion. Of course, we all vividly know what happened. Weidman’s leg snapped on the kick and it folded under him when he stepped back causing the fight to end.
Weidman wants to inspire with UFC comeback
A frustrated Weidman detailed the injury to Helwani and talked about his frustrations that it happened. Weidman said that he felt better than ever after this camp and he was so excited to show off just how good he is.
Admittedly, Weidman said that recovery is already more difficult than he ever imagined. The former UFC champion said that he deals with incredible amounts of pain just trying to go to the bathroom. He’s supposed to start physical therapy this week.
When asked about a UFC return, Weidman made it clear that he’s hopeful.
“It’s so frustrating and I know how much work it’s going to take. I know how good I am and I want to be able to prove it. I don’t have many more years to be able to prove that. My body never felt so good before this fight, I just can’t believe this happened. It sucks, I was really excited to show the world how good I am. If I can get my body back to where I feel like I’m that guy again, I 100% want to fight. I want to put on a show and be able to inspire other people.”
Chris Weidman on Ariel Helwani’s MMA Show
The former UFC champion also stated that he will document his rehab and comeback on his YouTube page. Weidman has always been one of the better guys in the sport, and I hope that he’s able to come back from this and put on a few more performances before hanging it up.