Joe Riggs accidentally shoots himself, will miss UFC bout against Paulo Thiago

A MIXED martial arts fighter has been forced to pull out of the biggest bout of his career after accidentally shooting himself.

UFC fighter accidentally shoots himself

A MIXED martial arts fighter has been forced to pull out of his first Ultimate Fighter Championship bout since 2006 after accidentally shooting himself.

Joe Riggs, an American whose comeback fight was scheduled for September 13, was cleaning his pistol yesterday when it suddenly fired, wounding him in the leg and hand.

“We were made aware that newly signed UFC competitor Joe Riggs was involved in an unfortunate accident last night,” the UFC said in a statement.

“While cleaning his permitted firearm, the gun discharged, injuring his hand and upper thigh. Riggs was transported to a nearby hospital in Arizona where he is being treated by physicians. We wish Joe a speedy recovery.”

ESPN reports that Riggs’ injuries are not life-threatening. But they could end his long-awaited comeback before it even begins.

The 31-year-old only re-signed with the UFC last week, having bounced around different mixed martial arts competitions for eight years. As recently as November, he was competing in — and winning — the reality TV series Fight Master.

On July 27, Riggs thanked his fans for their patient support and said he was ready to “step into the octagon” again.

“I’m back! I just wanted to thank everyone for the support, and thank you to the UFC for giving me a chance to go back to where I belong,” he said.

“Just have to get some doctor stuff done and then it’s time to step into the octagon once again.”

Now that opportunity is gone, at least temporarily.

The UFC has replaced Riggs for the fight against Thiago already, with a fellow American, Sean Spencer, verbally agreeing to step in.