Struve (photo via UFC.com)

By FCF Staff

Stefan Struve was set to fight for the first time in over a year at UFC 175, but according to reports, the heavyweight has been pulled from his fight with Matt Mitrione.

Struve, who was diagnosed with a rare heart condition last year, reportedly fainted in his locker room before the bout. News of Struve’s withdrawal is being reported by ESPN and was subsequently re-tweeted by Dana White.

“Stefan Struve blacked out in the locker room. He has elevated heart rate and is out of the fight. I’d never risk his health.” #DanaCenter

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 6, 2014

After fears that Struve may have to retire, the heavyweight responded well to treatments to address his heart condition, and was cleared to return earlier this year.

The 26 year-old hasn’t fought since March, 2013, when he was stopped by Mark Hunt.

(Update: it was confirmed during the pay-per-view broadcast that Struve has been withdrawn from the card, after having a near fainting spell. It was also relayed that the incident should not impact on whether Struve can fight again in the future)