Why Was Vergil Ortiz Jr. Hospitalised?

Vergil Ortiz Jr.

Vergil Ortiz Jr. will be back in action for the third time this year on August 10. The 26-year-old American will be facing Serhii Bohachuk at Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas. Before he begins his pursuit to continue his unbeaten status this Saturday, let’s take a look at the reigning WBO International welterweight champion’s medical history.

Back in March 2022, Ortiz had to postpone his fight against Michael McKinson due to his deteriorating health. Well, back in February 2020, the 26-year-old tested COVID-19 positive, which immensely affected him. Later, in 2021, he again had similar symptoms and eventually tested positive for the second time. However, he did overcome the disease and defeated Maurice Hooker on March 20, 2021.

But Ortiz’s struggle with medical issues continued. Ahead of his March 2022 bout against McKinson, the 26-year-old had to be hospitalized after he was diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis. The rare disease causes the breakdown of muscular tissues that release myoglobin in the blood. This eventually makes the body weak. However, the young American overcame this and rebooked his bout against McKinson on August 6, 2022. And guess what happened? He defeated the Brit by TKO.

Did Rhabdomyolysis Force Vergil Ortiz Jr. To Cancel His Bout Against Eimantas Stanionis?

After defeating Michael McKinson, the 26-year-old was supposed to face Eimantas Stanionis in 2023. However, the disease resurfaced, forcing Ortiz to withdraw from his bout. Later on, the young boxer had to undergo over a year of hiatus and returned to professional boxing on January 6, 2024, to face Fredrick Lawson.

In just four months, Ortiz faced yet another opponent. He defeated Thomas Dulorme on April 27, 2024, registering his 21st win. Thereafter, the matchmakers scheduled another bout for the boxer against Tim Tszyu on August 3, 2024. However, the latter withdrew after his medical team advised him to take elongated rest.

Now, Vergil Ortiz Jr. will be returning to yet another boxing match to face Serhii Bohachuk. Will the 26-year-old American continue his unbeaten streak? Well, that will certainly be answered on August 10!