Louis Smolka explains why he pulled out of Sean O’Malley fight, hopes they can meet down the line
Louis Smolka was preparing for one of the biggest fights of his career as he was set to face Sean O’Malley at UFC 264. Unfortunately for the Hawaiian, he was forced out of the scrap due to a staph infection and O’Malley will now face UFC newcomer, Kris Moutinho on the card.
When the news was first reported that Smolka was off the card, there was no word why he pulled out. Yet, it was later reported it was due to a staph infection which Smolka confirmed was the case. He also makes it known he wants the O’Malley fight down the line.
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“I was really excited for this fight. Being from Hawai’i, I have that jus scrap mentality so if it were solely up to me, I’d still fight. But, I have an infection so unfortunately I’ve been deemed medically unfit,” Smolka wrote on Instagram. “It sucks, but we have to be responsible about my health and the health of my training partners and opponent. I understand that Sean is set to stay on the card so I wish him the best. I’m sure we will see each other down the line.
This is a bummer, but it’s the reality of fight camps and continuous training. We are optimistic that we can get a new date set for you all when I my infection clears. Thank you to my family, the @ufc my managers, nutritionist, coaches, team, and the fans for the help and support. I appreciate you all very much. We are known for turning setbacks into comebacks, so that’s the plan,” Smolka concluded.
Louis Smolka hasn’t fought since December where he scored a second-round TKO win over Jose Quinonez to get back into the win column after he was submitted by Casey Kenney.
