Paul Craig Responds to Shock Bellato Exit: 'All Taken Away'

On May 20, Pakistani news surfaced regarding UFC light heavyweight Paul Craig’s comments about the sudden cancelation of his match against Rodolfo Vieira scheduled for UFC Vegas 106. Just as both athletes prepared to step into the octagon, the main event faced an abrupt halt, shocking spectators and participants alike.

The game had to be canceled because of an unexpected health problem involving Bellato at the last moment. At first, more information wasn’t shared, however, the Brazilian combatant subsequently revealed via social platforms that he pulled out due to a skin ailment—confirmed as herpes.

Craig, who is immensely popular among Scottish fans, was already behind the scenes preparing when he got the update. During a conversation with UFC commentators Paul Felder and Michael Bisping on Monday, Craig discussed the strange and discouraging ordeal.

Craig mentioned that when Hunter Campbell came strolling in, it seemed unusual right away," he stated about the UFC Chief Business Officer. "He doesn’t usually return just to wish someone well, which made me realize something wasn't quite right.

Campbell subsequently notified Craig that Bellato had been withdrawn from the fight because of a health issue, which essentially concluded Craig's evening well ahead of when he was scheduled to enter the octagon.

Craig stated, 'I was prepared, completely focused and mentally set.' It felt extremely frustrating for him. He simply wished he could strike something. The extensive training and meticulous preparations—they were all rendered meaningless at that instant.

Craig’s match with Bellato was a major highlight of the UFC Vegas 106 event, but its sudden cancelation left spectators disheartened and eager to know what lies ahead for both competitors.

Even though the UFC hasn’t set a new date for the postponed bout or chosen another fighter, Craig stays concentrated and driven, keeping his sights locked on returning to the octagon at the earliest opportunity.