“In an ideal situation for my 20th fight in the UFC, I would love to have a knockout on my record—just one walk-off knockout, like something you see in the highlight reels,” said Paul Craig, expressing his desire to finish Rodolfo Bellato in his return to 205-pounds at UFC Vegas 106. However, it seems the fight gods had other plans! What was supposed to be an exciting co-main event has turned into a grim story, as the fight has been canceled due to a medical emergency involving the Brazilian fighter. And that too just minutes before the actual bout!

UFC commentator John Gooden broke the news during the live broadcast: “We have some unfortunate breaking news. The co-main event has been canceled due to a medical issue on Rodolfo Bellato’s side. We’re sorry to announce this, but the fight will be rescheduled as soon as possible—potentially for May 31st or June 7th.”

Fans may get to see the Brazilian and ‘Bearjew’ face off either at UFC Fight Night: Blanchfield vs. Barber on May 31st or at UFC 316 in Newark, New Jersey. What was the medical issue, you ask? Well, Team Bellato is yet to give any clarification about his injuries or the medical issues. This cancellation will not impact the fighters, but it is still tough news, especially considering that Bellato traveled all the way from Brazil, and Craig was coming from his home in Scotland to Las Vegas.

Undefeated in his UFC career, the fighter was looking to secure the biggest victory of his career against Paul Craig, but the bout has been postponed. Holding a professional record of 12 wins and 2 losses, he has competed in two UFC fights so far. He made a successful debut against Ihor Potieria, earning a victory, while his second bout against Jimmy Crute at UFC 312 ended in a draw.

As for ‘BearJew’, the Scottish BJJ juggernaut is currently on a three-fight losing streak, having suffered defeats against Bo Nickal, Caio Borralho, and Brendan Allen. Craig dropped down from the light heavyweight division to the middleweight division, but despite the change, he continues to struggle with losses. Interestingly, in his UFC career, he has taken the ‘O’ of the current 205-pound champ, Magomed Ankalaev, and former champ, Jamahal Hill. Regardless, let’s have a look at what the fans have to say about the last-minute fallout.

Rodolfo Bellato faces scrutiny from fans after UFC Vegas 106 fiasco

Starting off, a social media user believed that Paul Craig could have won this fight because he has submitted most of his opponents, “Craig ko sub was so free.” If we take a closer look at his career, we can see that he has won 13 of his 17 career victories by submission.

Another fan expressed their frustration, “Shortest main card of all time?” The Brazilian finally found support from a fan who believed that Rodolfo Bellato made the right decision by not compromising his health for the sake of his career: “Unfortunate but better safe than sorry in this case.”

One fan highlighted the issue with fight cards being organised at the UFC Apex facility. “Fights at UFC apex just lack so much energy. Vibes not the same without a larger crowd.” With a seating capacity of almost 1000 spectators, the UFC Apex was inaugurated just before the COVID-19 pandemic shocked the world. This venue became a lifesaver for the promotion when the virus was at its peak. However, times have changed since then, and many fans believe that the UFC should move on from the Apex.

Despite this, individuals like Max Holloway and Joe Rogan have praised the Apex, specifically because they can hear the strikes much more clearly there. However, despite this, the fans are not in the mood to adopt the Apex as the new norm.

Another social media user was frustrated by the fact that there was no backup fighter for the co-main, “Why wasn’t there a fighter ready to step in? F–k sake it’s the co main event.” It should be noted that the UFC typically has backup fighters only for marquee events, such as the UFC 315 headliner, where Ian Garry served as the backup for the bout between Belal Muhammad and Jack Della Maddalena. Last but not the least, a social media user highlighted the lack of professionalism on the part of the Brazilian, “He pulls out against Oumar Sy and Paul Craig. His best win is the bum Potiera, and he lost twice to the bum Petrino. Cut this guy.”

Since their fight has been rescheduled from UFC Vegas 106, do you think Rodolfo will be able to defeat Paul Craig? Share your opinion in the comments below!