‘Shogun’ Rua Shares Photo of Elbow Injury Suffered in First Round of UFC 255 Defeat

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A post shared by Shogun Rua (@shogunoficial)

Not only did Mauricio Rua fall to Paul Craig in their rematch at UFC 255, but the Brazilian legend apparently suffered a nasty elbow injury in the first round of that defeat.

“Shogun,” who tapped to strikes 3:36 into Round 2 of the featured light heavyweight bout, shared a photo of a severely swollen photo on his Instagram account.

“Unfortunately things didn’t go out the way I would have liked last night, and this is a part of our sport. I suffered an injury to my elbow on the first time I was taken down, but this serves as no excuse, as it is part of fighting and it doesn’t take way any merits from my opponent,” Rua wrote. “An athlete’s career is not only made of glory and thank God I was already blessed many times with the reward of victory, due to a lot of sacrifices and effort, that only those who live our everyday routine really know what we go through.”

Although Rua entered the rematch unbeaten in his last three Octagon appearances – including a split draw with Craig in their first meeting – his latest performance had UFC president Dana White hoping that the 38-year-old Chute Boxe disciple would consider retirement.

For now, Rua only gave the indication that he will spend time with his family and “think” about his career.

“I want to thank all the amazing support from you guys, as always,” Rua wrote. “I’m blessed for being able to do this for 18 years already, and here in 2020 you guys are the great motivation I carry with me, and that it makes me continue this far.

“Now I’m going to rest with my family, and think about my career. I know that my mission in this sport goes way beyond the octagon as well. Thanks a lot guys.”