Dominick Reyes has revealed the terrifying health scare he endured before making his comeback to the UFC. The former light heavyweight title challenger is set to headline UFC Perth against Carlos Ulberg, but just stepping into the Octagon again is remarkable given what he has survived.
In April 2024, Reyes was diagnosed with deep-vein thrombosis, a dangerous blood disorder that left his future uncertain. Speaking on Submission Radio, he recalled the stark words of his doctor: “If you wake up today, then good on you. If you don’t, well, then it didn’t work out.”
Reyes admitted he lived day to day not knowing whether he would survive, describing it as a profound, spiritual experience. “I felt God, I felt His energy. He’s 100% real,” Reyes said. “I’m just grateful to still be able to fight and be on this platform. Win or lose, my mission now is to bring people to the light.”
The Californian has not fought since a brutal stretch of losses against the division’s elite, but victory in Perth could reignite his career. Should he defeat Ulberg, Reyes has his sights set on champion Magomed Ankalaev, provided the Russian retains his belt against Alex Pereira.
Beating Ulberg will be no easy task, especially with the New Zealander enjoying strong support across the Tasman. But Reyes believes he has the tools and the experience to shock the home favourite and prove that his survival story can extend to a sporting revival.
