UFC fighter Rachael Ostovich was the victim of an attack earlier this month, which was allegedly carried out by her husband, Arnold Berdon.
The attack had left Ostovich with a broken orbital bone and the injuries raised fears that she wouldn’t compete this January at UFC Fight Night Brooklyn. Ostovich would get checked out by medical professionals and the broken orbital bone is expected to heal in time, allowing the fighter to compete against Paige VanZant this January.
Ostovich has more to deal with in her life other than the broken orbital bone and the fighter explained in an interview with KHON2 News why the bout against VanZant will go on:
“Although this is a very difficult time for me and my family, I felt that this fight in January was important. I felt that it was extremely important to me to follow through with it — not only for me, but first for my daughter and other people that might be going through similar situations. I want to take a stand against domestic violence and show others that it’s OK to come out and speak about it and not be quieted. I feel like I have to do this. This is something that can’t be taken away from me. I want to use this big, worldwide UFC platform to show people that, don’t let anyone or anything come between you and your dreams and your career.”
VanZant, who meets Ostovich in Brooklyn, would also support her future opponent through a post on Twitter:
FIGHT STILL ON!!!!! I couldn’t be more great full to @rachaelostovich Yes we are going to war with each other in the cage, but I stand by her side with her ongoing battle at home. Let’s put on a fight and show these people how strong we are. #GirlPower #UFC pic.twitter.com/DDfNDV65jt
— Paige VanZant (@paigevanzant) November 27, 2018
Berdon pleaded not guilty to the charges levied against him and remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
UFC Fight Night Brooklyn takes place on Saturday, January 19 from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York with no main event announced at this time. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, which streams live on ESPN+.
