Joel Álvarez: Hand Injury Halts UFC Return
Spanish UFC fighter Joel Álvarez, also known as El Fenómeno, has suffered a hand injury that forces him out of his upcoming bout. The injury halts his UFC return and cancels his scheduled fight against Benoit Saint-Denis on May 10 in Montreal. Álvarez hurt his hand during a pad session, landing a jab on his coach’s elbow—a sudden impact that caused serious damage.
“I hit the boss’s elbow,” Álvarez told La Nueva España, confirming the accident that has now derailed one of the biggest fights of his career.
From Lightweight to Welterweight: A New Chapter for Joel Álvarez
The injury not only delays Joel Álvarez’s return but also marks a turning point in his professional MMA journey. He has announced that his next fight will be in the welterweight division, leaving the lightweight category behind. This change was unexpected and disappointing for fans, especially after Álvarez’s intense preparation to face Saint-Denis, who currently ranks No. 13 at lightweight.
Had he won, Álvarez might have climbed back into the division’s elite. Instead, this setback redirects his path.
Challenges Continue, but So Does the Fight
Joel Álvarez has faced many roadblocks throughout his MMA career. He’s dealt with visa issues, extreme weight cuts, and last-minute opponent changes. Each challenge has tested his resilience. This recent hand injury is another tough moment, but it doesn’t define his future.
“These things happen in a fighter’s career. We’ll come back stronger,” Álvarez said with determination.
Though he won’t fight on May 10, one thing is clear—El Fenómeno is far from done.
