Mike Pierce suffers 'severe MCL sprain' in controversial UFN 29 loss

(UPDATE: Although Mike Pierce initially tweeted that this story is inaccurate, he subsequently tweeted that “we’re on the same page.” As the original story stated, a final diagnosis and recovery time table haven’t been determined for the fighter, though the initial diagnosis is an MCL sprain. We wish Mike a quick and full recovery. )

Mike Pierce suffered a fairly significant knee injury during a recent controversial loss, but for now, it appears he’ll be able to avoid surgery.

Pierce (17-6 MMA, 9-4 UFC) suffered a 31-second submission loss to Rousimar Palhares (15-5 MMA, 8-4 UFC) this past week at UFC Fight Night 29. However, the Brazilian welterweight didn’t immediately break the leg and ankle lock, which ultimately prompted a quick UFC contract termination following the Oct. 9 event in Barueri, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Pierce’s trainer, Phil Claud, today told MMAjunkie.com that an MRI revealed a “severe MCL sprain” on the fighter’s left knee. The doctors told them surgery probably won’t be required.

However, they’re still awaiting word on the MRI results from his left ankle, which also was injured during the finishing sequence of the fight.

In the aftermath of the controversial loss (watch the full Pierce vs. Palhares fight video), Comissao Atletica Brasileira de MMA (CABMMA), Brazil’s regulatory MMA body, issued Pierce a 180-day medical suspension, though physicians can clear him early if his leg is deemed structurally fit.

Claud expects to have additional updates on Pierce’s condition and a recovery time table in the next day or two.

For more on UFC Fight Night 29, check out the UFC Events section of the site.