Rodolfo Bellato returns at UFC Vegas 121 after spine surgery

Rodolfo Bellato is ready to step back inside the Octagon after a difficult moment in his career. In May, the Brazilian light heavyweight was forced to withdraw from UFC Vegas 117 just days before the event after suffering a serious back injury that required emergency spine surgery. Now fully recovered, Bellato is expected to face Christian Edwards this Saturday at UFC Vegas 121.

Rodolfo Bellato Returns Following Surgery

Bellato was originally scheduled to face Modestas Bukauskas in May before his injury forced him out during fight week. The Brazilian revealed that he couldn't stand properly and had to rush back to Brazil to undergo surgery. Following the successful procedure, Bellato said he is fully recovered to return to action.

"I was supposed to fight in May, but the fight fell through during fight week because I had a serious spine injury," Bellato told Ag Fight. "I left the United States and went straight to Brazil for surgery. It was a herniated disc that was affecting my sciatic nerve. I couldn't even stand properly. But after three and a half months of recovery, I'm already 100%. Spine surgery is never something simple, but it was a success."

Coming off a TKO victory over Luke Fernandez in March, the 30-year-old returns with a 13-3-1 professional record and one no contest.

Rodolfo Bellato Sees Openings Against Christian Edwards

Despite the extended layoff, Bellato is confident in his preparation heading into Saturday's matchup. While the Brazilian acknowledges Edwards' physical attributes, he is also confident that his team has identified weaknesses in his game that he can take advantage of.

"He's a dangerous guy, he's big and has a long reach, but we found good openings in his game that match our style very well," Bellato said. "I'm feeling great, prepared and ready to represent Brazil and bring home another victory."

Edwards, meanwhile, enters the bout with an 8-5 professional record after losing a split decision in his last appearance in May. In fact, the American stepped in on short notice to face Bukauskas at UFC Vegas 117 after Bellato was forced out due to his back injury. Now, Edwards will look to bounce back when he takes on Bellato on Saturday.