Daniel Frunza experienced a brutal lip injury during his fight with Rhys McKee at UFC Vegas 105 on Saturday, resulting in a first-round defeat.
UFC President Dana White shared a shocking video showing the extent of Frunza`s injury after the fight.
The 30-year-old Frunza`s record now stands at 9 wins and 3 losses. However, the physical damage to his face was likely a bigger concern than the setback to his professional record.
The Romanian fighter`s upper lip was completely split open, leading the ringside doctor to stop the fight before the second round began.
Frunza required stitches to repair the severe laceration to his lip.
Despite appearing willing to continue fighting, the 6'1" 'Tigano' had no choice but to accept the defeat due to the doctor`s intervention.
Fans online agreed with the decision to halt the fight, praising the medical staff for prioritizing fighter safety.
One comment stated, “Good call to stop it. He could have lost his entire lip.”
Another added, “The doctors are amazing.”
In addition to the lip injury, Frunza also suffered a significant black eye and numerous cuts across his face from the intense fight.
Following the match, Frunza posted on Instagram, saying: “I feel okay. Disappointed with the result, but I`ll be back stronger than ever.”
This defeat ends Frunza`s previous streak of five consecutive victories. His last fight before this was a win against Vadtm Kustsyi.
For Rhys McKee, this victory marks his first in the UFC after losing his initial four fights.
McKee was also awarded a $50,000 Performance of the Night bonus.
In other UFC Vegas 105 results, Lerone Murphy defeated Josh Emmett by unanimous decision in the main event.
Pat Sabatini won against Joanderson Brito, and Chang Ho Lee secured a TKO victory over Cortavious Romious.
