Jared Cannonier says he broke his left arm in loss to Robert Whittaker at UFC 254

[autotag]Jared Cannonier[/autotag] wasn’t able to do enough to get the job done Saturday.

The UFC middleweight contender dropped a unanimous decision to former champion Robert Whittaker (22-5 MMA, 13-3 UFC) in the UFC 254 co-main event in Abu Dhabi. It was a big opportunity for Cannonier (13-5 MMA, 6-5 UFC) since UFC president Dana White said a title shot would be on his plate next if victorious against Whittaker.

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Despite coming up short in arguably the most important fight in his career, Cannonier is taking the defeat well. He issued a statement Sunday regarding his loss to the Australian and said he suffered a broken left ulna.

“That didn’t go exactly how I wanted, but My spirits remain high and I’m happy with how I fought all things considered,” Cannonier wrote. “The very first kick he threw broke or fractured my left ulna. I couldn’t find my grove and adjust quickly to get the W so I’ll take my L with pride. @robwhittakermma certainly lived up to my expectations before and after the fight. Congrats mate. Enjoy Xmas and the new (baby). It was a hell of an experience to be here. Can’t wait to go again.”

Cannonier’s loss at UFC 254 snapped a three-fight wining streak, which marked his entire UFC career at 185 pounds. The 36-year-old was returning after a year-long layoff due to a torn pectoral muscle that required surgery and rehabilitation.

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