In a shocking development ahead of UFC 324, preliminary fighter Cameron Smotherman collapsed on stage during Friday's official weigh-ins in Las Vegas, leading to immediate medical intervention and the cancellation of his scheduled bout.
Frightening Scene Unfolds After Successful Weigh-In
The American bantamweight, known by his nickname "Baby-Faced Killa," had successfully made the 135-pound weight limit for his fight against Ricky Turcios. However, moments after stepping off the scales, the 5-foot-9 fighter fell to the ground, appearing to strike his head before lying motionless on the stage.
UFC personnel rushed to Smotherman's aid as the organization's live broadcast quickly cut away from the disturbing scene. Witnesses reported that Smotherman's eyes remained open but he appeared to drift in and out of consciousness while medical staff attended to him.
Immediate Medical Response and Hospital Transport
Medical professionals were summoned to the scene as UFC staffers worked to stabilize the fallen fighter. Smotherman was carefully rolled onto his back but remained unable to stand on his own power, requiring assistance from his team and event personnel to be carried off the stage.
The 29-year-old fighter was subsequently transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment. As of the latest reports, his exact condition remains undisclosed, though the incident has prompted serious concern throughout the mixed martial arts community.
Fight Cancellation and Regulatory Implications
As a direct result of the medical emergency, UFC officials have cancelled Smotherman's preliminary card matchup against Ricky Turcios. This decision allows the hospitalized fighter to receive intravenous fluids to aid his recovery—a treatment option that would have been prohibited under Nevada State Athletic Commission regulations during the weight-cutting process.
The cancellation raises questions about compensation for both fighters involved. While Turcios successfully made weight as scheduled, it remains uncertain whether he will receive both his show money and potential win bonus for the scrapped bout.
Weight-Cutting Concerns in Combat Sports
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding extreme weight-cutting practices in mixed martial arts and other combat sports. Fighters often undergo drastic dehydration processes to meet weight class requirements, which can lead to serious health complications.
Nevada's athletic commission strictly regulates intravenous fluid use during weight-cutting due to potential health risks and competitive advantages. The cancellation of Smotherman's fight provides him with the medical clearance to receive necessary rehydration treatment that would otherwise be restricted.
UFC 324 Event Details Remain Intact
Despite this preliminary card alteration, UFC 324's main attractions remain scheduled for Saturday night. The event marks the promotion's first broadcast on Paramount+ as its new exclusive streaming partner in the United States.
The card features several high-profile matchups including:
- Main Event: Justin Gaethje versus Paddy Pimblett in a lightweight showdown
- Featured Bout: Sean O'Malley facing Song Yadong
- Heavyweight Clash: Waldo Cortes-Acosta taking on Derrick Lewis
Notably absent from the card is the previously scheduled women's bantamweight championship fight between Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes, which was postponed due to Harrison's neck injury.
The MMA community now awaits further updates on Cameron Smotherman's condition while reflecting on the inherent risks associated with professional fighting and weight management protocols.
