Mikey Musumeci, affectionately known as “Darth Rigatoni,” has made the difficult decision to part ways with ONE Championship following a challenging experience. In a heartfelt message on Instagram, Musumeci expressed gratitude and shared positive reflections on his journey. However, his decision to leave was shaped by a bitter incident at ONE 168.

In an unexpected turn, Musumeci was stripped of his title for failing to meet an abrupt weight-cut demand. Following a last-minute opponent change, he was instructed to drop three weight classes in just a few days—a request many found unreasonable. Despite the disappointment, the global ONE community showed strong support for the American jiu-jitsu star. In his farewell, Musumeci maintained a respectful tone, choosing to close this chapter without animosity.

He posted on Instagram and wrote, “END OF A CHAPTER OF MY LIFE – today I would like to announce I will no longer be living in Asia or competing under One Championship.” He narrated his story and spoke about returning to America with his family and starting a new chapter. Mikey added, “I was the first submission grappling world champion the organization ever had, and I had the platform and opportunity to help grow our sport of jiu-jitsu to so many more people!”

The Former ONE Flyweight Submission Grappling World Champion was set to face Bebeto Oliveira at ONE 168: Denver, held at Ball Arena. This matchup was arranged on short notice after lightweight champion Kade Ruotolo withdrew due to injury, leaving Musumeci to step in for the belt in a division three weight classes above his natural weight.

Musumeci prepared for this challenging task, but when it was announced he would face Oliveira instead, the unexpected change led to significant health concerns and ultimately forced his withdrawal from the event. But how serious were his health concerns? Let’s have a look!

Mikey Musumeci’s reason for withdrawal from ONE 168

The whole plan backfired for “Darth Rigatoni” as he failed to cut weight and was then stripped of his grappling championship belt. He even gave updates on his Instagram. The Evolve MMA and Cobrinha BJJ stalwart said, “I just want to thank everyone for the messages and support. I have been in the hospital since early this morning. I have pneumomediastinum, which means I had a tear in my lung on Wednesday I believe when I was cutting weight doing rickson diaphragm breathing (didn’t know this was possible) and air got into my chest and then into my neck.”