When Anthony ‘Rumble’ Johnson lost in a rematch against Daniel Cormier at UFC 210, he shocked the world for the first time with his retirement. Furthermore, ‘Rumble’ then reiterated that he wanted his body to recover and focus on something else. The second time the American shocked the world was when he suddenly pulled out of Bellator card, citing how ‘afraid’ he was. However, a year later, his manager has given an update on Johnson’s health.
In an interview with ESPN MMA’s Brett Okamoto, Ali Abdelaziz discussed the fulfillment of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov’s plan and other viable future fights. Significantly, when quizzed by the host, Abdelaziz gave an update about Anthony Johnson’s recovery.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Notably, Johnson withdrew from the fight that was scheduled at Bellator 268 on Oct. 16, 2021. The reason attributed was an undisclosed injury, and the fighter remained hopeful of a return in 2022. However, as 2022 is about to put curtains on its journey, the former UFC fighter finds himself in the same tight spot.
What did Abdelaziz say about Anthony Johnson?
While the 38-year-old fighter looked to regain his fitness level, the update by Ali Abdelaziz may have made some fans worry. Abdelaziz declared that ‘Rumble’ was going through some health problems. Further, the CEO of Dominance MMA Management remarked that the situation was sad.
Abdelaziz continued and stated, “I want everybody to pray for him. Pray for Anthony. He’s not doing well.”
Following this, Abdelaziz mentioned that Johnson was spiritually strong. Markedly, the 44-year-old manager also manages Khabib Nurmagomedov.
In the same segment, he thanked the Bellator promotion and its president, Scott Coker. Thus, he said, “They’ve [Bellator and Scott Coker] been supporting him [Anthony Johnson]. You can not imagine how much support they’re giving them and they didn’t really have to.”
Lastly, the famed manager parted a piece of advice to the light heavyweight fighter. Thus, he concluded, “Anthony, be strong. A lot of people love you. And he’s going to be okay. But he’s not doing well.”
View this post on Instagram
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
When a contract renewal deal with UFC collapsed in 2020, ‘Rumble’ made the switch to the Bellator. After a layoff of 4 years, Johnson returned to action in May 2021 when he defeated Jose Augusto by knockout at the Bellator 258.
The 23-6 record holder only lost twice in his last 15 fights. Both the losses came against Daniel Cormier, that too in title fights.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What do you think of this update about Anthony Johnson? Let us know in the comments below.
Watch This Story: Joe Rogan: Thug Life moments in UFC