Randy Couture, the former two-weight UFC world champion, was airlifted to a burn ward after sustaining injuries during a crash at a racetrack in Kansas City on Tuesday.
Hall of Famer Couture, 62, had been on a practice run ahead of reportedly making his debut for the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA).
According to TMZ, who first reported the news, Couture sustained various first and second degree burns to his body. It was also reported that he suffered trauma injuries and smoke inhalation.
Couture remains in a local burn unit, where he is being treated. According to reports, his condition is not regarded as life-threatening.
‘The Natural’ has been a noted motorsport fan for several years, saying in a recent interview (as reported by MMA Fighting) that he has been a “fan of racing for 12, 13 years.”
“From up in the stands it looks really easy: oh they just go fast … it’s so much more involved.”
Couture is generally regarded as one of the most beloved fighters in UFC history. He made his UFC debut (and first ever appearance in professional mixed martial arts) in May 1997, where he won the one-night UFC 13 tournament.
He won the UFC heavyweight title later that year, and would do so again in 2000 by defeating Kevin Randleman by third round TKO. Several years later, he would claim the UFC light heavyweight title.
In perhaps the most famous bout of his career, Couture returned from retirement to beat Tim Sylvia to become a three-time UFC heavyweight champion at the age of 43. He defended his crown once, against Gabriel Gonzaga, before losing the heavyweight title to Brock Lesnar in November 2008.