Antonio Rogerio Nogueira has been forced to withdraw from his UFC 161 bout with Mauricio “Shogun” Rua due to a herniated disc.
UFC officials have yet to release an official statement regarding the matter, but SporTV.globo brought word of the injury.
Nogueira (21-5) was riding a nice two-fight winning streak with victories over Tito Ortiz and Rashad Evans prior to the injury. The wins snapped a two-fight losing skid that could have easily forced the Brazilian out of the UFC.
“Lil Nog” signed with the organization in 2009 and holds a 4-2 record inside the Octagon.
No word as to how long the injury will keep Nogueira out of action for.
According to John Morgan of MMAJunkie.com the UFC is searching for a replacement.
UFC 161 will be the organizations first trip to Winnipeg, Canada. The main event is a late replacement match between Rashad Evans and Dan Henderson. It will take place at the MPS Centre and will also feature Jake Shields vs. Tyron Woodley.