Jason Silva-USA TODAY Sports
An unexpected illness removed Thiago Alves from his bout against Gunnar Nelson on September 28.
Former welterweight title challenger Thiago Alves will have to wait a little longer to get back in the Octagon. Just two weeks away from his UFC Copenhagen co-main event bout against Gunnar Nelson, the ‘Pitbull’ informed his fans on his personal Instagram account that an unexpected sickness removed him from the fight.
In the post, Alves explains that he tried to stay on the card, but his doctors did not clear him to fight, deeming it would put his health at risk. Fortunately, he won’t have to wait very long, claiming that he should be fit enough to compete again in four weeks. So far, no replacements for Thiago were announced by the UFC.
“Sad news, guys. Unfortunately, due to a unexpected illness, I am forced to withdraw from my fight in Copenhagen on September 28th vs Gunnar Nelson. I tried everything I could to stay in the fight, but my team of doctors wouldn’t allow me. My goal right now is to get 100% healthy so I can get back to do what I love. I would like to thank all my fans, team and family for the support. Also, the UFC and Sean Shelby, for allowing me to chase my dreams. After 4 weeks of intense treatment I should be back to work. In November or December, the Pitbull will be back.”
In his last outing in May, Alves dropped an unanimous decision to Laureano Staropoli. The loss came right after a split decision victory over Max Griffin in February. The Pitbull was expected to take on Gunnar Nelson at UFC Fight Night 160, in Copenhagen, Denmark, on September 28. The card is expected to be headlined by a middleweight bout between contenders Jack Hermansson and Jared Cannonier.