Maycee Barber Seizure Shocks UFC Fans: Last-Minute Fight Cancellation at Vegas 107

A Shocking Turn of Events for Maycee Barber

In a heartbreaking and unexpected twist, Maycee Barber, a rising star in the UFC women’s flyweight division, was forced to withdraw from the main event of UFC Vegas 107 on June 1, 2025, just minutes before her walkout. The reason? A seizure that left her unfit to compete against Erin Blanchfield, as confirmed by medics backstage. This dramatic cancellation has sent shockwaves through the MMA community, igniting heated discussions and polarized reactions from fans. Why is this moment trending, and what does it mean for Barber’s career? Let’s dive into the details of this emotional rollercoaster.

Background: A Fighter Battling More Than Opponents

For those unfamiliar with her journey, Maycee Barber has been a standout contender in the UFC, known for her grit and determination. However, the past year has been anything but kind to her. Since March 2024, Barber has faced a series of health crises that have kept her out of the octagon for 14 months. After her victory at UFC 299, she was hospitalized for nine days with a brutal combination of strep throat, pneumonia, and a staph infection. Later in 2024, she was diagnosed with the Epstein-Barr virus, further delaying her return to competition. The UFC Vegas 107 fight was supposed to be her comeback—a chance to headline a card for the first time and prove she’s still a force to be reckoned with.

Timeline of a Tragic Weekend

The events leading up to the cancellation paint a picture of mounting challenges for Barber. On May 31, 2025, she missed the flyweight limit by 0.5 lbs, forcing her to forfeit 20% of her purse to keep the fight active. Despite the setback, hopes were high for the main event. But on June 1, just minutes before she was set to face Erin Blanchfield, tragedy struck. Barber suffered a seizure backstage, and UFC medics declared her unfit to compete, leading to the heartbreaking cancellation of the fight. This last-minute withdrawal left fans, fighters, and commentators in a state of shock and concern.

Voices from the Octagon: Reactions and Empathy

The aftermath of the cancellation brought forth raw emotions from those directly involved. Erin Blanchfield, Barber’s opponent, confirmed the medical emergency to CBS Sports, stating,

She was having a seizure and having medical issues.

Her words underscored the gravity of the situation, shifting the focus from competition to concern. Similarly, Daniel Cormier, a UFC commentator, expressed his heartbreak on the same platform, saying,

We pray for Maycee and her health. Boy, I feel bad for Erin Blanchfield. I'm heartbroken for her. She prepared herself.

These reactions highlight the duality of empathy for Barber’s health and sympathy for Blanchfield’s lost opportunity.

Fan Reactions: A Community Divided

The MMA fanbase has been vocal in the wake of this incident, with opinions sharply divided. On one hand, some fans have criticized Barber for her pre-fight confidence, pointing to her bold statements in the lead-up to UFC Vegas 107 that now seem misplaced given her withdrawal. On the other, many supporters have rallied around her, emphasizing the severity of her health struggles and advocating for understanding. This split reflects a deeper conversation about the physical and mental toll of MMA, where athletes are expected to push beyond human limits. For more insights into the professional reactions, check out this article on BJPenn.com.

Barber’s Own Words

While Barber has not yet spoken extensively about the seizure, she addressed the situation briefly through an Instagram post on June 1, 2025. This personal update from the fighter herself offers a glimpse into her mindset following such a devastating moment. As fans, we can only imagine the emotional weight of this setback after fighting so hard to return.

Conclusion

✔️ The last-minute cancellation of Maycee Barber’s fight at UFC Vegas 107 due to a seizure has left the MMA world reeling.
✔️ As we await updates on her health, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility behind the ferocity of fighters, sparking debates on athlete well-being and fan expectations.