This is for trivia buffs. All eyes in the mixed martial arts world are on UFC 320. Headlined by Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira, the marquee event unfolds at the T-Mobile Arena tomorrow night. Beyond the main event, the card features a lineup of exciting fights, each promising an edge-of-the-seat experience. Before the main card begins, the early prelims and preliminary bouts will keep the momentum and suspense alive.

So in the prelims, which will be live-streamed on ESPN+, Disney+, and FX, middleweights Edmen Shahbazyan and Andre Muniz face off. After a series of setbacks, Shahbazyan has worked to get his career back on track, securing two consecutive victories. For Muniz, who suffered a loss after he returned from an almost two-year layoff, things don’t look bright. So many keenly look forward to the contest between the 27-year-old Californian and his 35-year-old Brazilian foe. Now, what may add intrigue to the matchup is that the American competes despite a medical condition.

What happened to Edmen Shahbazyan’s chest?

It is called pectus excavatum. It is also termed ‘funnel chest’ sometimes. Some fans may have noticed it during pre-fight formalities, such as weigh-ins and face-offs. In this condition, the breastbone (sternum) is sunken inward. So it gives the chest a concave or ‘caved-in’ appearance.

Reportedly, pectus excavatum is generally congenital. It is caused by abnormal growth of the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum. As a result, the chest can appear visibly hollowed or sunken. Sometimes it becomes more pronounced during adolescence. Many people experience no serious health issues. However, in some cases, it can affect breathing, cardiovascular function, or posture, especially during intense physical activity.

For an athlete like Edmen Shahbazyan, competing at the highest level despite this condition makes his perseverance and performance especially noteworthy.

Does pectus excavatum affect Shahbazyan’s performance?

An outlet, Dr. Pectus, featured a series of photos of individuals with the condition, including Shahbazyan. According to the portal, “The mixed martial artist is one of the athletes with pectus excavatum. Edmen, who had a very successful career despite the disadvantage in his body, was able to win many of the fights he took part in.” Other notable fighters with pectus excavatum include Matt Hughes and Nate Diaz.

So, given the condition, it may surprise some that Shahbazyan competes at the highest level of MMA. He began his professional career in 2017 and made his UFC debut in 2018 via the Contender Series. After initial wins, he faced setbacks in 2020 with consecutive losses to Derek Brunson, Jack Hermansson, and Nassourdine Imavov.

Although he returned with a win in 2022, Anthony Hernandez handed him his fourth career loss. Last year, Gerald Meerschaert secured a submission against him on the Cannonier-Borralho card.

Despite these challenges, the Glendale-born fighter continues to persevere. In severe cases, pectus excavatum can restrict lung capacity and affect cardiovascular function, potentially impacting stamina. Yet Shahbazyan remains committed to forging his legacy in MMA. For anyone seeking inspiration, his journey stands as a clear example of resilience.

Do you think Shahbazyan will close the year with a third victory when he meets Muniz tomorrow?