Filho in Clinic, Out of WEC Fight

Conman · 03-13-2008, 09:42 PM

Source: sherdog

Quote:

Paulo Filho (Pictures) will not defend his WEC middleweight crown against Chael Sonnen (Pictures) on March 26, his manager, Jorge Guimaraes, told Sherdog.com.

"We tried our best with Filho, but it didn't work and he'll not fight in the WEC," Guimaraes said. "He tried with all his effort to accomplish the title defense, but he realized he couldn't do it due to chemical dependence and depression. He knew this kind of stuff does not have a link with the sport, and I'm happy he had a conscience and looked for help."

Filho had disappeared for two days, causing immense concern for his teammates and Guimaraes. He ended up checking himself into a rehabilitation clinic in Niteroi, Brazil.

Guimaraes couldn't say for certain how long Filho will stay under treatment, but he suggested the fighter will stay at the clinic until he is 100 percent. Filho is feeling better, Guimares said, after 48 hours of treatment. Guimaraes declined comment on the root of his chemical dependence.

"The WEC staff was superb with us," the manager added. "They understood the situation, and Filho will return and defend his belt in June. Filho also realized who his real friends are, and he took this lesson seriously. He'll come back victorious from this tough moment and he will be supported, as mentioned, by his real friends."

I think he should have dealt with this issue before agreeing to fight. Hopefully after this is resolved we'll see a better Paulo Filho.

NateRupe · 03-13-2008, 09:45 PM

That cracks me up, he's scared of Sonnen he knows he's lucky that he is still champ, I hate fighter bashing like this but pulling out of a fight due to depression? Sonnen is getting screwed here.

Rumbin · 03-13-2008, 09:48 PM

I saw this earlier. What a ****ty break for WEC. This was there weakest card on paper in a year or so and it just got bumped down big time. BOOOO

basslogic4003 · 03-13-2008, 10:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NateRupe

That cracks me up, he's scared of Sonnen he knows he's lucky that he is still champ, I hate fighter bashing like this but pulling out of a fight due to depression? Sonnen is getting screwed here.

Are you serious? The guy checked himself into rehab! NOTHING to do with being "scared of Sonnen". It is unfortunate for Sonnen, but to say that Filho checked himself into rehab out of fear is just ridiculous. I, for one, hope he can overcome his disease and come back like the same old Filho we all love.

AikaImmortal · 03-13-2008, 10:33 PM

Don't fault the guy for knowing he had a problem. The timing is inconveniant but illness like that wont just let you chill out. Plus, if the problem was as bad as it seems he would have pissed hot at the post fight and been suspended for a while. Hope he gets the help he needs and dosen't end up like Ryan Gracie.

glockmn · 03-14-2008, 12:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NateRupe

That cracks me up, he's scared of Sonnen he knows he's lucky that he is still champ, I hate fighter bashing like this but pulling out of a fight due to depression? Sonnen is getting screwed here.

I think it is good for Sonnen no fighter wants to beat a fighter that is not 100% there is alot of stress being a fighter I'm sure he isn't the only fighter that has this prob...look at tanner he had a bad run too....I hope for the best!!!

Mulla · 03-14-2008, 09:15 AM

Sad news, I hope he makes a full and speedy recovery!

jyd94 · 03-14-2008, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NateRupe

That cracks me up, he's scared of Sonnen he knows he's lucky that he is still champ, I hate fighter bashing like this but pulling out of a fight due to depression? Sonnen is getting screwed here.

If you would read it also mentioned chemical dependance. If he pulled out of fight cause of fear maybe you should pull off the forum for not being able to read.

I do agree Sonnen is getting screwed especially since this looks to have been known about for a while now.

compcast · 03-14-2008, 10:15 AM

why not just strip him of the title and let the 2 top mw fight for the belt.

Mulla · 03-14-2008, 10:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by compcast

why not just strip him of the title and let the 2 top mw fight for the belt.

He's the best MW they have...who would you suggest deserves a title shot out of the WEC MW division???

Saskabush · 03-14-2008, 10:35 AM

I'd like to know a little more about what exactly the "chemical dependence" is. Maybe it has something to do with his poor performance in the first fight?

Either way I hope to see him back soon to prove all the doubters wrong.

Crashsti · 03-14-2008, 02:18 PM

Its good that he is seeking help. Much better than the other option which is to let it take over and destroy him. Obviously he feels that MMA is'nt that important when faced with other issues.

T-Bone · 03-14-2008, 02:21 PM

This sucks...though at least he's getting help now.

compcast · 03-17-2008, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mulla

He's the best MW they have...who would you suggest deserves a title shot out of the WEC MW division???

I'm sure they have some kind of rankings so just take the next mw on the list and let him and chanel fight for the mw belt.my reason for striping him is that is not a legit excuse not to defend,it is good he is getting help but the show must go on I think that sucks for the other guys in the division look at the heat matt serra got and he was hurt.another option is take a couple of guys from the ufc like marvin eastman,pete sell,and maybe danny abbadi if he still fights and send them to the wec instead of use them as stepping stones and let them get in the mix of things and maybe spice things up in the division in the wec.this is just my opinion.

dsver1 · 03-17-2008, 04:25 PM

kudos for him for admitting he has a problem. Whether it be depression, chemical dependence or both, it's better that he seeks treatment and can come back healthy rather than be a big-name suicide (which is often the outcome when things go unchecked). That would be a devastating outcome for him (obviously), the sport and the WEC.

fullonshred · 03-18-2008, 01:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dsver1

kudos for him for admitting he has a problem. Whether it be depression, chemical dependence or both, it's better that he seeks treatment and can come back healthy rather than be a big-name suicide (which is often the outcome when things go unchecked). That would be a devastating outcome for him (obviously), the sport and the WEC.

Well said dsver, well said.

Additionally, Chemical Dependency is a disease, and vacating his MW Title because he has admitted he is affected and is seeking treatment could possibly open the WEC up to a lawsuit, depending of course on a number of factors that are unknown to me at this time.

I would be interested in knowing exactly which chemical or chemicals he has been using, but really, it is none of my business.

I do wish Paulo a complete and successful resolution to both his chemical issues, and his depression. Either one can devastate a life, combined (as they often will be) they are an exceptionally destructive force. God Bless Paulo, and get well!