Here’s an insightful look at Irene Aldana‘s recent comments regarding the handling of her severe injury during UFC 306. In a bout against Norma Dumont, Aldana suffered a catastrophic cut that has been described as one of the worst in the history of the UFC. This incident has raised concerns about the efficiency and procedures of the commission during high-stakes fights.
Aldana’s cut, which extended from beneath her eyebrow to her hairline and was approximately half an inch wide, was caused by an accidental, yet illegal, headbutt at the end of Round 2. In her reflections post-fight, Aldana expressed her fears about the multiple instances of headbutting that went unnoticed by the referee, Herb Dean. “I’ve seen that in other similar cases, the referee calls the fighter’s attention. ‘Watch the headbutts, watch the headbutts.’ I think in this situation, there was no warning from the referee,” she noted.
Further highlighting her concerns, Aldana questioned the actions of the cutman and the commission after the clash of heads. “I’ve seen fights stopped for smaller cuts, at least for the doctor to get called to check the cut to see if the fighter should continue,” she stated. Aldana was perplexed that no doctor was present to examine her significant injury, which she felt warranted immediate attention. “It was risky to continue after seeing the cut and the videos; I mean, you could basically see my skull,” she stated, emphasising the severity of her condition.
During the crucial moments after the cut was inflicted, Aldana did not receive the proper medical attention expected in such high-pressure circumstances. Instead of being evaluated by a doctor, she explained that a towel was simply pressed against the wound. “I don’t remember the doctor checking on the cut, and I didn’t get Vaseline. The cutman was putting his weight onto the cut, and I feel like that opened it more,” Aldana explained. This mismanagement has led her to ponder, “What if something bad would’ve happened? I would’ve had something bad stem from this.”
Despite the risks posed to her health during the fight, Aldana displayed remarkable resilience and will. While she voiced her frustrations regarding the commission’s response, she also took pride in her ability to continue fighting. “The fighter in me is happy it wasn’t stopped because… I still connected and came after her,” said Aldana, showcasing her determination and spirit in the face of adversity.
Now back to training, Aldana is eager to continue her pursuit of the UFC title, although she acknowledges the need for recovery after such a traumatic experience. “I’m more motivated than ever,” she stated. “The goal is still the same: winning the UFC title. I’m just going to take some time off and not rush back.”
Aldana’s experience at UFC 306 serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous safety protocols in mixed martial arts. As fans and commentators, we must remain vigilant in holding the commission and governing bodies accountable for fighter welfare above all else.
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