courtesy NBCsports.com

Headlines read 'Pat Miletich will fight Thomas Denny December 11th at Adrenaline MMA show' and I did a double take.  Isn't this the same Pat Miletich that retired a couple of years ago because of a serious neck injury?...Same guy right?

Fortunately, the pain associated with his neck injury improved without surgery (just as most of them do).

Should Pat Miletich be revered for his pioneering role in MMA?  Is he a living legend of the sport? Did he make a significant contribution to MMA?  These questions don't even require an answer.  Pat Miletich's MMA legacy is beyond reasonable discussion by mere mortals.

But his safety is very open for debate.

Elite athletes are rarely satisfied by being a spectator.  Their competitive spirit will not allow them to easily become a fan. Commonly, an elite athlete must be protected from themselves.  If allowed, they will compete with true injuries (not merely pain) and despite the recommendations of multiple physicians.   

I have not examined Pat but I would love to see his MRI and x-rays then talk to the doctor that cleared him for this upcoming Dec. 11th fight.  

A 40 yo combat or contact athlete with a previous 'serious' neck injury usually requires more detailed evaluation by a spinal specialist.   The potential consequences of an unknown issue related to a prior injury may be devastating.

As we age, prior injuries to the spine or joints tend to become arthritic and deteriorate faster than usual.  This degeneration may render the spine unstable and prone to injury.

Assuming that a vigorous appearing combat or contact athlete is structurally sound may lead to the 'perfect storm'.