Cody Durden Hospitalized After UFC 310 Loss: Suffers Fractured Orbital

Cody Durden entered the match brimming with confidence and surrounded by high expectations from fans and analysts. He’s known for his relentless fighting style and is considered a strong competitor in the flyweight division.

With a solid track record and weeks of intense training, many believed he was well-prepared to deliver a crucial victory. However, the fight turned into a grueling test of endurance and skill.  

Durden started strong, utilizing his trademark grappling techniques to gain the upper hand in the opening round. His opponent, Joshua Van, was equally determined and brought a sharp striking arsenal that gradually shifted the tide of the match by the second round. 

As the final bell rang, it became clear that the fight had taken a significant toll on Durden. He lost via unanimous decision, and the post-fight assessment revealed a severe injury—a fractured orbital—that required immediate medical attention. The implications for his professional career remain uncertain as he begins his recovery. 

Brutal Moments That Defined the Fight 

The fight between Cody Durden and Joshua Van at UFC 310 was an intense clash that showcased the resilience and determination of both fighters. From the start, Durden tried to assert dominance by relying on his grappling skills. He landed several successful takedowns in the first round, keeping Van grounded and landing strikes to the body and head. For a moment, it seemed Durden’s strategy was paying off. 

Van, however, quickly adapted to the situation. Scrambling out of tough positions, he relied on his striking skills to even the odds. The second round saw the momentum shift in his favor. Anticipating Durden’s movements, Van countered effectively with clean combinations that forced Durden onto the defensive. 

The turning point unfolded midway through the second round during an intense exchange in the center of the octagon. Van unleashed a solid right hook that struck Durden's orbital bone, instantly causing swelling and affecting his vision. Though shaken, Durden stepped back briefly before pressing forward, determined to regain control through grappling and clinch work. 

Van capitalized on Durden’s compromised defense, delivering a barrage of strikes that left Durden struggling to maintain his footing. Fans in the arena could feel the tension as Durden, despite the visible toll, continued to fight with remarkable courage. 

In the third round, the swelling around Durden’s eye had worsened, making it hard for him to perform. Some believe the referee should have stopped the fight earlier to prevent more damage, while others praised Durden’s determination to keep going. Ultimately, Van won unanimously, solidifying his status as a rising star in the flyweight division. 

Urgent Medical Response to a Devastating Injury 

After the fight, medical staff quickly attended to Durden, assessing the severity of his injuries. He was immediately transported to a local hospital, where a CT scan confirmed a fractured orbital. The injury caused extensive swelling and affected his vision during the match, raising concerns about long-term effects. 

After doctors ruled out additional complications, Durden was discharged from the hospital later that night. Still, the recovery process for such an injury is expected to take weeks or even months. Sharing his thoughts on social media, Durden wrote, “Praying my vision comes back,” a statement that resonated with fans and underscored the seriousness of his condition. 

His team expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and affirmed their focus on Durden’s recovery. They emphasized that his health would remain the top priority, and they had no plans to rush his return to the octagon. The community, including fellow fighters, showed their support by flooding social media with well-wishes during this difficult time. 

Shockwaves Across the Ultimate Fighting Championship Community 

News of Durden’s injury spread rapidly across the community, sparking widespread reactions. Fans commended his performance and resilience, praising him for his determination to continue fighting despite the injury. Fellow fighters also expressed admiration, noting that Durden’s toughness and unwavering spirit were qualities to be respected. 

Analysts have speculated about how this injury might impact Durden’s career. While a fractured orbital is a serious setback, many believe his resilience and work ethic will aid him in making a strong comeback. They pointed out that fighters often face tough recoveries and praised Durden's determination to push through challenges. 

The Ultimate Fighting Championship has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident, but the organization is known for supporting its athletes during challenging times. As the broader MMA community rallies behind Durden, the focus remains on his recovery and eventual return to the octagon. 

Conclusion 

Cody Durden’s performance demonstrated his fighting spirit and the risks of competing at the highest level. While the fractured orbital marks a challenging chapter in his career, it also reinforces the resilience that has defined his journey in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. 

As he begins the recovery process, fans remain optimistic about his eventual return to the octagon. Durden’s history of overcoming adversity suggests that this setback will only fuel his determination. With support from his team and the broader community, many believe he will return stronger and ready to compete again.