Charles Rosa 'heartbroken' after Mizuto Hirota pulled from UFC-Japan for safety reasons

Charles Rosa is taking the high road in response to opponent Mizuto Hirota being pulled from UFC Fight Night 117 at the last minute due to a botched weight cut.

After Hirota (18-8-2 MMA, 1-3-1 UFC) came in four pounds over the featherweight limit for his matchup with Rosa (11-3 MMA, 2-3 UFC), which was set to open tonight’s UFC Fight Night 117 main card on FXX at Saitama Super Arena in Japan, there was much concern over whether it was safe for the fight to go on.

Despite UFC officials originally stating Hirota was fit to compete, it was later decided that due to “health and safety concerns,” the Japanese fighter would not step in the octagon in his home country.

Although athlete safety should always come first, it’s a disappointing turn of events for Rosa, who put in a full training camp, flew all the way from Florida and made weight in a professional manner. He’s naturally upset over the situation, but Rosa chose not to kick Hirota while he was down (via Instagram):

Unfortunately, my @UFC fight versus Mizuto Hirota was cancelled early this morning for his safety by medical doctors. After Mizuto came to weigh-ins 5lbs overweight, I accepted to fight him regardless, woke up the following morning to find out he was pulled. Obviously, i was heartbroken but all the sacrifice, hardwork and dedication I put in wasn't for waste, I will be back in the cage soon to show the world what they pay to see! I love this sport and sometimes this is part of the game! Out of my control, so I won't let it bring me down, just motivate me more for the next one. Thanks to all my friends, family and fans for support! Especially, the ones that flew across the world to Japan to see me fight, love you all and will be back home a in few days! #RosaNation #teamRosa #BostonStrong ????

A post shared by CharlesRosa (@charlesrosamma) on Sep 22, 2017 at 6:19am PDT

Unfortunately, my @UFC fight versus Mizuto Hirota was cancelled early this morning for his safety by medical doctors. After Mizuto came to weigh-ins 5lbs overweight, I accepted to fight him regardless, woke up the following morning to find out he was pulled. Obviously, I was heartbroken but all the sacrifice, hardwork and dedication I put in wasn’t for waste, I will be back in the cage soon to show the world what they pay to see! I love this sport and sometimes this is part of the game! Out of my control, so I won’t let it bring me down, just motivate me more for the next one. Thanks to all my friends, family and fans for support! Especially, the ones that flew across the world to Japan to see me fight, love you all and will be back home a in few days!

The UFC has not yet addressed whether Rosa will be paid his win and/or show money for UFC Fight Night 117, and “Boston Strong” made no mention of compensation in his statement.

Nevertheless, it appears Rosa, who has received three “Fight of the Night” bonuses in his five UFC appearances, is looking to be booked on another card as soon as possible.

For more on UFC Fight Night 117, visit the UFC Rumors section of the site.