UFC Denver’s highly anticipated main event was a mess as Macy Barber, who was scheduled to face Rose Namajunas at Ball Arena, pulled out days before the fight with this sudden change leaving fans and the MMA community wondering why for which Barber had to resign. Fortunately, the promotion found a replacement, but Barber’s absence raised a lot of questions.
Revealing the Real Reason
Macy Barber took to social media to explain her withdrawal. In an Instagram post, she detailed the health issues that led to her decision. Barber shared a picture of himself and a heartfelt quote highlighting his struggles. The #4 UFC women’s flyweight fighter was hospitalized for nine days following her fight with Katlyn Cerminara at UFC 299. Doctors were initially unable to diagnose her condition, but she later developed pneumonia and a series of antibiotics followed made his body very weak.
The Determination of a Warrior
Despite his health issues, Barber was determined to fight. Realizing that he could recover by July, he accepted the fight against the Namajuna. However, his health deteriorated as the training intensified. Barber admitted he couldn’t keep up with the rigorous training required for a five-mile fight. His team noticed his physical struggles and intervened.
“Although I kept pushing and trying,” wrote Barber, “my team knew that I was not physically close to going to war, let alone training, and I needed answers why my body seems to be against me without a lifetime of injury.” so far .
Terrible Research Findings
Further testing revealed that Barber had contracted the Epstein-Barr virus. The virus is notorious for causing complications such as inflammation of the heart muscle and risk of cancer. For Barber, it caused physical pain, headaches, fatigue, and loss of strength between training sessions. “I tried to push through the fatigue, but every time I saw symptoms that matched these lab findings,” he continued.
Facing a Harsh Reality
Heavy doses of antibiotics had compromised her immune system. The more he trained, the sicker he just got. Learning about the serious risks, including possible spinal fractures, devastated Barber. “I was devastated after being informed of the serious risk of a lumbar puncture, among other life-altering risks,” he quotes.
A Difficult dDecision
Ultimately, Barber and his team decided to make his health a priority. “We made the decision with my coaches, doctors and the UFC team to take care of my physical health now so I can race in the future.” Although disappointing, it was an important step to ensure his long-term recovery. Now fans are eager to see Barber back in the Octagon, fully healthy and ready to showcase his skills.
Tracy Cortez Takes Over the Main Event
Tracy Cortez stepped in to prevent a fall from the main event at UFC Denver Cortez immediately accepted the challenge, and was confirmed to fight Namajuna.
Facing former strawweight champion Namajunas is a major hurdle for Cortez. At 5-0, Cortez was a strong choice to replace Barber. While Barber has yet to announce a timetable for his return, fans are eagerly awaiting his recovery and return to the Octagon.
