Well that is a headline that I never thought I would write, both for the fact of Joe Riggs UFC return and about a fighting shooting himself, it was accidentally I might add.
The MMA veteran was cleaning out his gun (all legal) when it discharged and injured his “hand and upper thigh”, a statement from the UFC said. He was taken to a local hospital, is in stable condition and the injuries are not considered life-threatening.
Riggs (40-14, 1 NC) was poised to make his UFC return at Fight Night 51 against Paulo Thiago. The last time ‘Diesel’ fought in the UFC was a loss to Diego Sanchez in 2006. He has a 4-4 record in the promotion. Following his departure he went on to fight for Strikeforce and a host of regional promotions around the States before winning Bellator’s ‘Fight Master’ show last year. The 31-year-old is also on a 6-fight-win-streak.
A replacement from Thiago is now currently being sought.
Alan’s Angle: Always be careful when cleaning your guns and make sure they are not loaded. In all seriousness I wish Joe a speedy and full recovery. I was a fan of his back in the day and am glad he is being considered once again by the UFC. I would also predict a Robbie Lawler type career resurgence for the veteran should he make a full recovery.
