Fabricio Werdum withdraws from PFL 6, MRI shows brain swelling

Former UFC heavyweight champion Fabricio Werdum has revealed why he will be withdrawing from his upcoming PFL 6 bout against Brandon Sayles.

In a statement released by Werdum’s PR rep Rayssa Kussama, It was revealed that neurologist Dr. Wuilker Knoner Campos performed tests on Werdum following his original TKO defeat (later ruled a no-decision) to Renan Ferreira. After reviewing the tests Dr. Campos has not allowed the Brazilian to return to training after spotting swelling to the brain.

“I’ve hidden many injuries to be able to fight when I was in my 20s, but now I need to prioritize my health and listen to the [doctor], I want to be able to enjoy my daughters and see them growing, and that’s the right thing to do at the moment. I’m fine, and I’ll be able to return to training soon.”

Whilst the specific part affected by the swelling wasn’t mentioned in the release, it has been revealed the swelling is around the temple area.

What does the withdrawal mean for Werdum’s PFL season? Well he won’t be able to compete for any more points at a crucial stage meaning qualifying to the play-offs is unlikely. We also don’t yet know a date that ”Vai Cavalo” can return to training, so expectations of his imminent withdrawal are high.

The news is a massive shame for the Brazilian heavyweight. Fabricio Werdum signed with PFL back in November 2020 following his contract ending with the UFC. Werdum has an outstanding resume, boasting impressive victories over Alexander Gustafson, Cain Velasquez & Fedor Emelianenko.