Struve Scratched from Mitrione Fight

The UFC 175 main card took a blow Saturday night when the heavyweight bout between Stefan Struve and Matt Mitrione was scratched after Struve took ill in the locker room.

Returning for the first time since a medical scare after his 2013 bout against Mark Hunt, the 26-year-old Struve began to black out backstage and his heart rate was elevated, with the assumption being that he was having a panic attack. After being checked out by doctors in attendance, Struve was pulled from the bout as a precautionary measure. He has since been treated and released by medical staff. His vital signs are normal and he told doctors he is feeling better.

OFFICIAL UFC STATEMENT

Stefan Struve suffered a non-life-threatening, near-fainting spell backstage. Afterwards, the medical team did not feel he was fit to compete. With his health and safety in mind, he’s been removed from the card and is currently under the care of the medical staff. We will provide further updates as they become available.

STATEMENT FROM MATT MITRIONE

“I found out what happened and went to talk to Stefan. He was still in his chair and was very apologetic. He’s such a competitor. Obviously health and safety come first.”