The good news is Max Holloway claims that doctors are saying he’s ok
The bad news is the same doctors supposedly couldn’t figure out what was wrong with Max Holloway.
The undisputed UFC featherweight champion appeared on Ariel Helwani’s MMA Show to address concerns about his health following his withdrawal from UFC 226. Three days before he was set to defend his belt against Brian Ortega, Holloway was rushed to the emergency room. A statement from his team revealed he was suffering concussion-like symptoms including “flashing vision” and “slurred speech” The frustration over the lost fight was quickly replaced by worry for Holloway.
“I’ve seen multiple doctors and experts but they haven’t been able to give answers as to what happened. As of right now, I’m ok.”
“I wish the answer was that simple”
Holloway revealed that he has been placed on a 30-day medical suspension. He is awaiting the results of a couple more tests, but ‘everything is looking good.’ According to the Hawaiian, “we should be back to business, hopefully before the end of the year.”
Although he confessed to being frustrated about not knowing what went wrong, some ailments were crossed off the list. He confirmed that it was not the result of a weight cut and also dismissed the rumour that he was knocked out in training.
“That didn’t happen. I didn’t suffer a concussion at all. I wish the answer was that simple. It would be easier to move forward if we knew what happened.”
He also addressed the stroke rumour that his team already denied.
“The word ‘stroke’ never came up. When the rumours came out my first thought was that it was clickbait. I never thought I wasn’t going to fight again. That never ever crossed my mind.”
UFC president Dana White suggested that the symptoms may have been the result of ‘water poisoning’. Holloway doesn’t believe that was the case either.
“I don’t know what it is. When we went into the ER, they checked my potassium levels and kidneys and everything was fine. You guys all know when you start cutting weight you don’t really water load until the week of the fight. My symptoms started the Friday before.”
The well-wishes sent by rivals such as Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jose Aldo all found home.
“I was surprised when Conor tweeted, but I wasn’t in disbelief. I really appreciated that. Sometimes, it ain’t about that anymore. For him to recognise that, was really cool and the same for Khabib.”
