He’s coming off of a concussion
Alvarez was set to end his long-awaited trilogy with Chandler at Bellator’s inaugural pay-per-view (PPV) event, May 17’s Bellator 120 until a concussion suffered in training forced him out. Chandler subsequently lost a bout for the interim belt to lesser-known Will Brooks.
It’s unknown just how much Alvarez has recovered from the serious head injury, but all signs do point to him having made a full recovery. If that’s the case, there should be nothing to worry about and Alvarez can proceed as planned.
However, if the injury persists or re-occurs, then absorbing the massive amount of punishment it will take to become the UFC lightweight champion could definitely hinder his career in a big way. His aforementioned tendency to keep his chin exposed certainly won’t help matters.
We’ll just have to wait and see.