In a record-breaking fight at UFC Abu Dhabi on July 26, 2025, Steven Nguyen knocked down Mohammad Yahya six times. Many were afraid he was seriously hurt when his left eye was swollen shut. However, hospital scans revealed only bruising and no fractures, according to MMA Mania.
Since then, Mohammad Yahya’s injury has generated debate on social media about fighter safety and the necessity of stricter stoppage regulations.
[REPORT] He Got Knocked Down Eight Times and Still Stood Tall
One of the most incredible events in MMA history was witnessed by fans at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi. Mohammad Yahya, a lightweight fighter from the UAE, took six knockdowns in his clash against Steven Nguyen.
Despite being clearly overwhelmed, he never gave up. He kept getting back on his feet, even as his face swelled up badly, especially around his left eye.
Mohammad Yahya’s injury looked serious enough that fans and commentators feared something permanent.
Before the third round could begin, the cageside doctor made the right call. The fight was stopped, and Yahya was taken to the hospital for a full checkup. What followed was unexpected—but in a good way.
SUGGESTED READ: Paulo Costa Talks Rocky Start With Dana White
[UPDATE] The Health Update That Shocked Everyone
After the brutal scenes inside the cage, doctors quickly ordered CT scans to check for fractures or brain trauma. Given how swollen his face was, especially his eye that had completely closed, things looked grim.
But to everyone’s relief, the test results came back clear. The Mohammad Yahya injury turned out to be limited to swelling and bruising. There were no facial fractures or serious head trauma. Though the swelling around his eye looked disfiguring, he avoided long-term damage.
On Instagram, he posted “ALHAMDOULILAH” along with a photo of his healing eye.
View this post on Instagram
It’s rare for a fighter to go through that much punishment and walk away with no broken bones. Yahya’s toughness earned him even more respect from fans.
[TRENDING] Fans Were Furious and Worried Online
Social media exploded after the fight. Fans weren’t just shocked by the number of knockdowns. Many were angry at how long the referee, Jason Herzog, let the bout go on. People questioned why there isn’t a three-knockdown rule in MMA, especially when someone is clearly in danger like in the Mohammad Yahya injury case.
One user commented, “Herzog needs to be investigated. The Lewis stoppage the week before was weird, but this one was criminal.”
Herzog needs to be investigated. The Lewis stoppage the week before was weird, but this one was criminal.
— Teru Mikami Esq. (@DolorAeternus) July 27, 2025
Pankaj Kapoor’s Take
Watching a fighter get dropped six times and still continue shows unbelievable grit. But it also raises questions about safety. Yes, the Mohammad Yahya injury ended up being less severe than it looked although it could have been much worse.
The argument over whether MMA requires additional safety regulations was renewed by this fight. When does the body of a fighter become in danger? When should officials step in, even if the opponent isn’t willing to give up?
Although the injury to Muhammad Yahya may not have been extreme, it generated a debate that could influence future fighting methods.
Fans are ultimately relieved that he is doing better. In real time, Mohammad Yahya’s injury looked horrifying, but fortunately, he is currently recovering and making his full comeback.
YOU MIGHT READ: Ulberg vs Reyes Headlines UFC Fight Night in Australia
