Middleweight fighter Joe Pyfer has opened up about his decision to withdraw from UFC Mexico, citing severe illness as the main reason for his absence from the scheduled bout against Kelvin Gastelum in March 2025. This experience left Pyfer feeling frustrated and angry, leading him to publicly express disdain for fighting at high elevations. With their match now rescheduled for UFC 316 in Newark next week, Pyfer reflects on the ordeal, emphasizing the importance of his health over competition.
Joe Pyfer’s Withdrawal from UFC Mexico
Joe Pyfer’s unexpected withdrawal from the UFC Mexico event in March 2025 shocked fans and competitors alike, as the middleweight fighter was set to face the seasoned Kelvin Gastelum. Pyfer’s illness struck while he was in Mexico City, forcing him to pull out just days before the fight. This incident was particularly disappointing for Pyfer, who had prepared extensively for the high-altitude conditions by acclimating for two months prior to his trip. Despite his efforts, he fell ill, experiencing severe gastrointestinal issues that rendered him unable to compete.
“I couldn’t fight like that,” Pyfer explained during an interview with Ariel Helwani, candidly describing his condition. He spoke about the embarrassment of potentially losing control in the Octagon, admitting, “He would have slapped me, and I would have sh*t myself.” This moment of vulnerability resonates with fans who appreciate the physical and mental demands that athletes face ahead of a fight.
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Fighter Name | Joe Pyfer |
| Opponent | Kelvin Gastelum |
| Event Withdrawal | UFC Mexico, March 2025 |
| Health Issue | Illness likely due to altitude sickness |
| Future Fight | Rescheduled for UFC 316 in Newark, NJ |
| Pyfer’s Comments | Expressed regret about fighting conditions in Mexico; vowed not to return |
| Financial Impact | Lost $25,000 due to fight cancellation |
| Online Backlash | Received negative reactions including death threats |
In conclusion, Joe Pyfer’s withdrawal from UFC Mexico due to illness has become a significant moment in his career, highlighting the risks fighters face when competing in challenging environments. His candidness about the ordeal raises questions about athlete safety and health standards in international competitions. How can organizations better support fighters in such situations?
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Joe Pyfer withdraw from the UFC Mexico fight?
Joe Pyfer withdrew from his scheduled fight against Kelvin Gastelum due to severe illness he experienced after traveling to Mexico City. He reported that he was too sick to compete safely and feared that fighting in such conditions could lead to further complications.
What were Joe Pyfer’s thoughts on fighting in Mexico?
Pyfer expressed strong negative feelings about fighting in Mexico, stating that he experienced significant health issues and vowed never to fight there again. He described the country as unsuitable for competition, especially at high altitudes.
What health issues did Joe Pyfer face after his trip to Mexico?
After returning from Mexico, Pyfer suffered from intense gastrointestinal problems and fever, marking the worst illness he had ever experienced, which lasted for several weeks.
How did fans and the public react to Joe Pyfer’s comments about Mexico?
Following his remarks, Pyfer faced backlash online, including direct messages with threats and criticism for his strong statements about Mexico. Despite this, he maintained that his comments stemmed from frustration rather than animosity toward the country.
When is Joe Pyfer scheduled to fight Kelvin Gastelum?
Joe Pyfer and Kelvin Gastelum are rescheduled to face each other at UFC 316, which will take place next Saturday in Newark, New Jersey.
Subscribe
