UFC 309 medical suspensions – Fighters face extended layoffs after brutal bouts

The New York State Athletic Commission has announced the mandatory medical suspensions for fighters following UFC 309, which saw intense action inside the octagon. Four fighters have been handed a 90-day suspension, while others, including former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic, received a 60-day hiatus from competition. Here’s a breakdown of the medical suspensions for UFC 309 and what it means for the affected fighters.

Fighters with 90-Day Suspensions

UFC 309 featured some brutal bouts, with multiple fighters suffering significant damage. The longest suspensions of 90 days were issued to four fighters, requiring them to receive clearance from their primary care physician or undergo further neurological evaluation before returning to the cage.

James Llontop received a 90-day suspension after his hard-fought, three-round battle with Mauricio Ruffy. Llontop was part of the opening fight on the main card, and although he fought bravely, the damage he sustained led to the extended suspension.

Jhonata Diniz, the heavyweight fighter who lost to Marcin Tybura, also faces a 90-day medical suspension. Diniz will need approval from his primary care physician before he can compete again, highlighting the impact of his loss.

Mickey Gall was another fighter who suffered a significant knockout loss, this time to Ramiz Brahijaj. Like the other fighters facing a 90-day suspension, Gall must undergo a neurological clearance before he can fight again.

Bassil Hafez also received a 90-day suspension after being knocked out by Oban Elliott. His suspension includes the requirement for a neurological evaluation before his return to the octagon.

Stipe Miocic’s 60-Day Suspension and Retirement Announcement

Stipe Miocic, the former UFC heavyweight champion, was handed a 60-day medical suspension following his knockout loss to Jon Jones at UFC 309. Miocic was the victim of a spinning back kick to the body that ended the fight. Despite early reports of significant injuries, Miocic’s team confirmed that, aside from a facial cut, he didn’t sustain any major physical trauma.

Miocic’s 60-day suspension might seem short compared to others, but it is unlikely to affect his career plans. Shortly after the fight, Miocic announced his retirement from mixed martial arts, meaning he likely won’t return to the UFC, making the suspension more of a formality than a significant setback.

Brief Suspensions for Other Fighters

Not all fighters at UFC 309 were dealt lengthy suspensions. Jon Jones, the victorious fighter in the main event, only received a mandatory 7-day rest period following his win. The short duration of Jones’ suspension reflects the relatively minimal impact of the fight on his health, allowing him to quickly return to training and prepare for future bouts.

Conclusion

UFC 309 brought thrilling action but also saw several fighters sustain enough damage to require extended medical suspensions. While four fighters face 90-day layoffs, former champion Stipe Miocic’s retirement marks the end of an era for the heavyweight division. These suspensions serve as a reminder of the physical toll that MMA can take, even on the sport’s most seasoned veterans.