Allen submitted Duncan at UFC Vegas 122 while fighting a staph infection all week

Brendan Allen submitted Christian Leroy Duncan with a fifth-round rear-naked choke in the UFC Vegas 122 main event at Meta Apex in Las Vegas on October 10 — all while managing a staph infection that had required antibiotics since Tuesday of fight week, according to teammate Belal Muhammad.

Muhammad, a former UFC welterweight champion, disclosed the illness on X after the bout, noting that Allen still had five days remaining on his antibiotic course following the victory. The revelation adds significant context to what was already an impressive performance from Allen, who improved his record to 28-7 and extended his winning streak to four consecutive fights.

“What people don’t know is Brendan was dealing with a staph infection since Tuesday of fight week,” Muhammad wrote. “Had to get on antibiotics, still has 5 days left on them, and despite all that adversity, went out there and got the finish. Never complained, never made excuses, just found a way to win. That’s the heart of a champion. Proud of my brother.”

Duncan, who fell to 15-3, was unable to survive the championship rounds against Allen, who secured the finish late in the fifth frame. The submission earned Allen a Performance of the Night bonus from the UFC.

Following the win, Allen wasted little time in targeting his next opponent, calling out former middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis for a future bout.