Justin Tafa UFC injury update: eyes cleared of major damage

UFF Heavyweight Justin Tafa’s recent injury update reveals that he has been cleared of any major damage to both eyes, but unfortunately, both eyes did suffer some damage.

Although his right eye still experiences pain, sensitivity to light, and blurred vision, Tafa is grateful that the injury is not career-ending or causing serious damage to his eye.

Cleared of any major damage to both eyes but both eyes did suffer some damage. Right eye still in some pain, sensitive to light and blurred vision on the but I thank God nothing that was going to end my career or cause serious damage to my eye.

Thank you all for your concern 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/NQawBFgxdp

— Justin Tafa (@justin_tafa) June 26, 2023

During his highly anticipated main card fight against Austen Lane at UFC Jacksonville, Tafa encountered an unexpected turn of events within the first 30 seconds.

After absorbing a solid body kick from Lane, Tafa was inadvertently struck in the eye by Lane’s left hand, causing excruciating pain and immediate visual impairment.

Given the severity of the eyepoke, the referee intervened to grant Tafa the necessary time to recover.

However, despite rest and care, it became increasingly clear that continuing the fight would be impossible.

The ringside doctor remained skeptical about Tafa’s ability to continue, ultimately leading to the decision of a no-contest ruling due to the severity of the injury.

One of the most brutal eye poke in the UFC ends the fight between Austen Lane and Justin Tafa 😢#UFCJacksonville

pic.twitter.com/lnGzKnni1N

— Combat Sports Today 📰 (@CSTodayNews) June 24, 2023

While disappointment filled the arena due to the premature end of the fight, the unresolved tension between Tafa and Lane sets the stage for a rematch.

The much-anticipated rematch would be ideal for UFC 293, taking place in Sydney on September 10.

Both fighters will be surely determined to settle the unfinished business and provide the spectacle that fans have eagerly awaited.

Before the initial fight, Tafa was heavily favoured with odds of -175 to win, according to top MMA betting sites.

The injury setback may have hindered his performance, but Tafa’s resilience and determination will be on display when he steps back into the octagon, ready to prove himself and secure victory in this thrilling heavyweight clash.

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