Featured Image Credit: UFC/X
Topics: UFC, MMA, Daniel Cormier
Luke Davies
The main event of UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas was cancelled just minutes ahead of the bout on Saturday evening.
The bout between Maycee Barber and Erin Blanchfield in the women’s flyweight division was pulled just minutes before the scheduled ring walks.
Barber, 27, had not fought for over a year due to issues with injury and an illness which reportedly saw her hospitalised for 11 days, according to ESPN.
Meanwhile, Blanchfield, 26, explained how she learned of the cancellation after UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell entered her dressing room to notify her of the news.
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Barber had missed weight during Friday’s weigh-in, something that her opponent called “super unprofessional”.
And despite there clearly being a medical issue, Blanchfield was hardly sympathetic and explained how she is not interested in rescheduling the fight.
"Hunter came in and was saying that she was having a seizure and having medical issues and that she's not going to be able to fight," Blanchfield said.
"I knew once I saw him that it wasn't something good, because he was being serious.
"I'm just in a little bit of disbelief. We were already told six minutes until workouts, I had already warmed up and hit pads. I was literally ready to go - then we got the news."
UFC commentator Laura Sanko added: “I can't emphasise how much she's been battling with her health this last year.
"We don't know what happened, but clearly it was something serious enough where she's not cleared."
"We pray for Maycee and her health," commentator Daniel Cormier continued.
"Boy, I feel bad for Erin Blanchfield. I'm heartbroken for Erin Blanchfield. She prepared herself."
As reported by MMA Mania, UFC officials confirmed that Barber had been transported to the hospital.
Fellow MMA fighters were quick to react to the news on social media.
Derek Brunson said: "I turned on my iPad to watch the final fight. They’re breaking news that Maycee Barber will not be fighting. What in the hell is going on! Who jinxed combat sports."
While Diana Belbita added: "Poor girl. It has to be something serious to have to pull out of the fight right before the walkout."