MMA fighter Bassil Hafez made his UFC debut but ended up in the emergency room due to a health scare that he believes is linked to a drastic weight cut he had to make for the fight.
Bassil Hafez lived his dream by making his UFC debut, but it might have been a costly experience. At UFC Vegas 77 held last Saturday, Hafez, 31, stepped in on short notice to go head-to-head with rising star Jack Della Maddalena. Despite putting up a challenging fight that lasted for 15 minutes, Hafez unfortunately lost in a split decision. However, he mentions the relief of the loss being the limit of the consequences faced that day.
Afterwards, Hafez discussed a worrying incident in an interview with The MMA Hour. Post-match he was taken to the emergency room, as he was concerned about a possible concussion or a brain injury. The hospital did indeed find an issue, however, it was unrelated to his initial concerns. The medical team found air in Hafez’s chest, located behind his heart, around his lungs and esophagus. This was a threat, as if pressure elevated, it could result in a stroke or a heart attack. He spent the night at the hospital under observation to ensure his safety.
The hospital deduced these issues were associated with chest trauma. Hafez, however, correlates his symptoms with weight cut complications, as he had experienced them once before after a previous weight cut. According to Hafez, the doctor’s observations lined up with what he was feeling even before the fight. Now, Hafez is recovering well and has his sights set on his next UFC match. He is committed to demonstrate his true potential, especially when he is fully equipped and has ample time to prepare.
Despite these dire circumstances, Hafez considers any opportunity to fulfill his dream as worthwhile, even if everything doesn’t go according to plan. Reflecting on his performance at UFC Vegas 77, Hafez believes he should have won. Not necessarily impressed by his performance, he still insists that he did the best he could under the strains he was experiencing. He is keen for a rematch with Maddalena and confident he has what it takes to win with the benefit of a full camp.