During UFC Vegas 107, Maycee Barber was forced to withdraw from her main event bout against Erin Blanchfield due to a sudden medical emergency. Her head coach, Cody Donovan, has publicly defended Barber, emphasizing her determination to compete despite the unforeseen circumstances.
Unexpected Medical Emergency
Just moments before the scheduled fight, Barber experienced a medical issue in her locker room. According to Donovan, Barber was adamant about proceeding with the fight, even as her condition worsened. “She refused to surrender in spite of what was happening to her medically,” Donovan stated. “As a coaching staff, we decided to call the doctor in, even as she begged us not to. What we saw was just too dangerous.” :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
Barber’s Response and Apology
Following the incident, Barber took to social media to address the situation. She expressed gratitude for the support she received and apologized to the UFC, her team, and Blanchfield. “Not what I had planned for a Sunday post,” Barber wrote. “Thank you to everyone for the prayers and support. I owe an apology to UFC, Mick Maynard, Dana White, Sean Shelby, and Erin Blanchfield.” :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
Blanchfield’s Reaction
Erin Blanchfield, Barber’s scheduled opponent, expressed frustration over the last-minute cancellation. She criticized Barber’s professionalism, referencing the missed weight and the abrupt withdrawal. “She needs to fix her life,” Blanchfield remarked. “She’s a complete mess in every aspect of her entire life.” :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}
Looking Ahead
Barber’s health remains the top priority, with further medical evaluations underway to determine the cause of the emergency. While the incident has temporarily halted her momentum in the flyweight division, her coach remains optimistic about her return. “When they tell the story of Maycee Barber, this will be the Goliath that she got to overcome on her road to greatness,” Donovan concluded. :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
