Not only did Mauricio Rua
fall to Paul Craig
in their rematch at UFC
255, but the Brazilian legend apparently suffered a nasty elbow
injury in the first round of that defeat.
“Shogun,” who tapped to strikes 3:36 into Round 2 of the featured
light heavyweight bout, shared a photo of a severely swollen photo
on his Instagram account.
“Unfortunately things didn’t go out the way I would have liked last
night, and this is a part of our sport. I suffered an injury to my
elbow on the first time I was taken down, but this serves as no
excuse, as it is part of fighting and it doesn’t take way any
merits from my opponent,” Rua wrote. “An athlete’s career is not
only made of glory and thank God I was already blessed many times
with the reward of victory, due to a lot of sacrifices and effort,
that only those who live our everyday routine really know what we
go through.”
Although Rua entered the rematch unbeaten in his last three Octagon
appearances – including a split draw with Craig in their first
meeting – his latest performance had UFC president Dana White
hoping that the 38-year-old Chute Boxe disciple
would consider retirement.
For now, Rua only gave the indication that he will spend time with
his family and “think” about his career.
“I want to thank all the amazing support from you guys, as always,”
Rua wrote. “I’m blessed for being able to do this for 18 years
already, and here in 2020 you guys are the great motivation I carry
with me, and that it makes me continue this far.
“Now I’m going to rest with my family, and think about my career. I
know that my mission in this sport goes way beyond the octagon as
well. Thanks a lot guys.”