Louis Smolka Posts Statement, Explains Withdrawal From Sean O’Malley, UFC 264 Bout
Louis Smolka (image via UFC/YouTube)
By FCF Staff
Recently it was reported Louis Smolka had withdrawn from a fight with Sean O’Malley, and now the bantamweight’s provided more details regarding the situation.
Smolka was scheduled to fight O’Malley at UFC 264 this coming Saturday. Initially, it was reported the Hawaiian fighter had withdrawn due to an undisclosed injury. But, in the statement below, Smolka revealed he’s been deemed unmedically fit due to an infection.
I was really excited for this fight. Being from Hawai’i, I have that jus scrap mentality so if it were solely up to me, I’d still fight. But, I have an infection so unfortunately I’ve been deemed medically unfit. It sucks, but we have to be responsible about my health and the health of my training partners and opponent. I understand that Sean is set to stay on the card so I wish him the best. I’m sure we will see each other down the line.
This is a bummer, but it’s the reality of fight camps and continuous training. We are optimistic that we can get a new date set for you all when I my infection clears.
Thank you to my family, the @ufc, my managers, nutritionist, coaches, team, and the fans for the help and support. I appreciate you all very much. We are known for turning setbacks into comebacks, so that’s the plan.
Smolka (17-7) hasn’t fought since December, when he stopped José Alberto Quiñónez. Since his withdrawal from UFC 264, it’s been reported O’Malley will now fight UFC newcomer, Kris Moutinho on July 10.
