Jan Blachowicz made it clear that withdrawing from UFC 297 is not his choice. In his recent statement, the fighter explained his position, which leaves him with “no other option.”

Aleksandar Rakić, whom Blachowicz was supposed to fight, first confirmed the news. The Polish later affirmed the cancellation of the fight, sharing his statement involving the matter on Instagram.

In the post, Blachowicz shared how he has no option but to withdraw due to the pain his injury is causing him. Given that he is just steps away from a possible title shot, the No. 4-ranked Blachowicz expressed his frustration about it.

“It wasn’t supposed to be this way,” Blachowicz said. “It’s hard to express how I feel because it’s a mixture of anger and sadness. Withdrawing from a fight due to injury is one of the most difficult decisions a fighter can make. However, sometimes there is no other option, especially when you are competing in the TOP 5 and want to put on a show at the highest possible level.

“Instead of fighting for the best shape, I fight with the pain during every training session. I did everything I could, but my shoulders need surgery. In this state, continuing preparations and entering the octagon would be irresponsible and stupid.”

There are still no details on the return of Blachowicz, who shared that the surgery will be followed by rehabilitation. The 40-year-old, nonetheless, assured fans to “come back stronger.”

As for Rakić, the certainty of a fight is currently murky. It is unknown if UFC is now looking for a replacement, but it is important to note that Jiri Prochazka openly volunteered, albeit with a specific February/March return.

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