On Monday, Al Iaquinta under went successful knee surgery to repair the damaged cartilage in his knee. After a stem cell and plasma injection didn’t prove to be as effective as hoped for, doctors as well as Iaquinta thought this would be the best course of action. With rehab starting next week Iaquinta will look to make his return mid summer.
Looking back to April all of this seemed to be an after thought. Although the knee issue lingered Iaquinta was on a tear through the light weight division. Raging Al recorded knock out victories over Rodrigo Damm, Ross Pearson, and Joe Lauzon respectfully, as well as a split decision victory over Jorge Masvidal. Al looked to make it five in a row against veteran light weight Gilbert Melendez. Once Melendez tested positive for testosterone metabolites, Iaquinta opted to take care of the injury and get back to 100%.
“I’m feeling good man” Iaquinta commented last night. “They said everything wen’t well, I’ll start physical therapy next week.” A return for Iaquinta can’t come soon enough. He went on to say, “I’m just relieved it’s done with. One step closer to getting back in there.”
Iaquinta has gained a reputation for not only being quite the competitor, but even more respected for his work ethic. It’s that same work ethic that will get him back in the octagon in no time. Expect an even stronger Iaquinta to come back in 2016 and continue to make a statement in the light weight division. Continue to check here for updates, interviews, and much more.
-Matt Pellicane
