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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
Though he defeated Rani Yahya at UFC 133 in Philadelphia, top featherweight contender Chad Mendes was worried a potentially broken hand could take him out of the running for the next title shot in the division.
However, Mendes got good news on Monday after having his hand examined by doctors.
"[Nothing] is broken, but I do have torn/sprained ligaments in my hand [and] ankle," Mendes tweeted late Monday. "Still great news [though]! Should be fine in a few weeks!"
A few weeks out of action isn't much of a setback, as Featherweight Champion Jose Aldo doesn't defend his belt until October 8, when he takes on Kenny Florian at UFC 136 in Houston. If he's healthy and prepared to fight, Mendes will likely still get his shot at the winner of that fight.
Penick's Analysis: His performance over Yahya wasn't his most impressive victory, but at 11-0 he should still be in line for the shot over the other featherweights in the division. He's an immensely strong fighter in one aspect of his game, and he has a long way to go to develop the rest of his skills, but he is the top guy for the UFC right now unless they try to immediately plug Hatsu Hioki into that spot.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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