After his removal from the 2023 PFL season due to a failed drug test, Rob Wilkinson released an Instagram post in which he took full responsibility for his actions. He also stated that he’ll be working on his health to return to the PFL 2024 as his best version.
Exclusion from the promotion can be shameful, especially for renowned fighters like Wilkinson. Was Wilikson’s response to his exclusion professional? Or was Razor trying to gain sympathy from his fans by showing that he’s suffering from mental health issues? Should the company be held responsible for not focusing on the fighters’ mental and physical health? Continue reading to find out!
The 2022 PFL light heavyweight season champion was one of the double-digit competitors at PFL that faced punishment for failing a drug test. At 2023 PFL 1, “Razor” competed in the co-main event and unanimously defeated former UFC light heavyweight title contender Thiago Santos. But that outcome has since been changed to a no-contest verdict due to his failed drug test.
Wilkinson issued a lengthy statement on Instagram Wednesday, addressing the issues. He takes full responsibility for the failure and promises to get better mentally and physically as he prepares to return for the 2024 season. Razor expressed his gratitude for the support received throughout his career. He explained his absence in the 2023 PFL season, mentioning failing an in-competition drug test after his last fight on April 1st, which led to his suspension for the rest of the season. He apologized to the people around him for letting them down and acknowledged the need for reflection and learning from his mistakes. He mentioned utilizing the time during his suspension to improve his mental and physical health, with the determination to return stronger.
He expressed gratitude to those who showed unwavering support during this challenging time. He concluded by stating his eagerness to move past this situation and return to his passion, promising to bring the PFL 2024 LHW belt back to Australia. Four successive stoppage victories were a part of Wilkinson’s 2022 championship run. He defeated Bruce Souto, Viktor Pesta, Del Monte, and Omari Akhmedov.
His fans also tell him they are eagerly awaiting his return in the coming season. Also, we aren’t the ones to judge him because none of us know what he must have been going through. But the company should be held responsible for not considering their fighters’ mental and physical health before sending them to compete.
So, what are your views on Razor’s exclusion? Do let us know in the comment section!
