Former UFC strawweight champion Rose Namajunas underwent surgery on Tuesday following her fight against Natalia Silva at UFC 324. The procedure came in response to eye injuries sustained during the bout, which took place on Saturday. According to Namajunas, she was poked in the eye multiple times over the course of the contest.
Namajunas faced Silva in a closely watched matchup that marked another chapter in her journey through multiple weight classes. Despite her extensive experience and championship pedigree, the fight ended in a loss for Namajunas. After the contest, she reported vision issues and discomfort, prompting further medical evaluation.
Following the fight, Namajunas and her team consulted with specialists, who determined that surgery was necessary due to the nature of the eye injuries. Though specific medical details were not disclosed, procedures of this type are typically conducted to address corneal scratches or other trauma resulting from eye pokes.
Eye pokes are a known risk in mixed martial arts, despite existing rules and guidelines designed to minimize such occurrences. Fighters are discouraged from extending open fingers toward an opponent’s face, and referees have discretion to issue warnings or take other actions if infractions are noted. In this case, it is unclear whether eye pokes were officially acknowledged during the bout or if any point deductions were issued.
While Namajunas has not provided a timeline for her return, she expressed determination to continue competing. Her team indicated that recovery from the procedure is expected to go smoothly, barring complications.
Natalia Silva, her opponent in the bout, has continued to rise through the ranks and remains an active competitor in the UFC women’s division. The fight itself added to Silva’s growing resume, while Namajunas’ future plans remain a subject of interest among MMA observers.
Namajunas, a two-time champion in the strawweight division, is known for her technical striking and tactical approach in the octagon. Her recovery and potential return to action will be closely followed by fans and analysts alike.
