Just 24 hours before fight night, UFC 234 saw major changes in its headliner fight. Middleweight champion Robert Whittaker was forced off the contest due to a hernia, which he immediately underwent surgery for on Saturday.
Apparently, there are some medical issues from challenger Kelvin Gastelum’s side as well. During the media obligations on fight week, a noticeable redness could be seen below Gastleum’s lower lip, which many suspected to be ring worm.
On fight night, Aaron Bronsteter of TSN Sports reported that Gastelum did admit to having staph infection.
Gastelum remained at cageside during the event, with the UFC belt draped on his shoulder. He did get flak for it, first from Israel Adesanya during the Octagon interview, and later, from Conor McGregor.
UFC welterweight Colby Covington also took shots at Gastelum for the visible infection.
UFC 234 ended up being headlined by a three-round fight between Israel Adesanya and Anderson Silva. “The Last Stylebender” ended up with a unanimous decision win, keeping his undefeated record (17-0, with 13 wins by knockout) intact.