Rashad Evans injured knee, surgery will cost 'Suga' six-month UFC sit

Former Light Heavyweight champion, Rashad Evans, has a long road to recovery ahead.

"Suga" today (Feb. 18, 2014) released a statement, revealing that he will soon undergo surgery to repair the knee he recently injured in training for a showdown against Daniel Cormier, which was supposed to take place this weekend (Sat., Feb. 22, 2014) at UFC 170 from Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

And what initially appeared be a tweak, will indeed ensure Evans is "screwed" for at least the next half-year (via ESPN).

"I am deeply disappointed to be missing the action at UFC 170. But I am, as always, incredibly grateful for the support of my family, friends, management, the UFC, and most of all my fans during this minor setback. Thank you for your continued messages of support. I'll be back stronger than ever."

It's a stretch to call knee surgery and a six-month rehabilitation a "minor setback," especially at his advanced mixed martial arts (MMA) age, 34. Then again, it could be worse, like the curious case of Julianna Pena, who reportedly suffered "the worst injury ever."

Evans is in the midst of a two-fight win streak that includes a split decision over Dan Henderson at UFC 161 back in June 2013 and a first-round lashing of Chael Sonnen five months later at UFC 167. A win over Cormier, an undefeated former Strikeforce Heavyweight champion, undoubtedly would have put him on the fast track to reclaiming his 205-pound world title.

Now, he has to his reset and watch Octagon newcomer Patrick Cummins take his spot against Cormier, who like Evans, is in prime position to warrant a championship opportunity if victorious in "Sin City."