UFC featherweight Josh Emmett recorded one of the biggest wins of his UFC career on Saturday, although it came with a price.
Emmett (15-2) told ESPN on Monday he suffered a complete ACL tear in his left knee during the opening moments of his unanimous decision win against Shane Burgos at UFC Fight Night on Saturday. The 145-pound bout took place inside the company's Apex facility. Both fighters received a $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus.
In addition to the torn ACL, Emmett told ESPN he suffered a partial tear of his MCL, a Baker's cyst rupture (a condition that involves a pre-existing injury that leaks fluid into the calf), a focal impact fracture of the femur, cartilage damage and severe swelling around the joint.
Emmett, 35, did not immediately provide a timeframe for his recovery.
Fighting out of Team Alpha Male in Sacramento, California, Emmett has won five of his six contests and is likely in line for a high-profile fight at 145 pounds. The injury was apparent early in his fight against Burgos, as Emmett looked unstable at times on his left leg. He admitted afterward he was forced to change his game plan and style after the injury occurred.
"I'm happy with the win, but I'm pissed about this," Emmett told ESPN that night. "I want to turn around and fight again. I want to get closer to the title. I know I can compete with anyone in the division. I know I will be a world champion."
Emmett also missed significant time in 2018 due to facial injuries suffered in a loss to Jeremy Stephens. As of Monday, he was the No. 8-ranked featherweight, per the UFC.