UFC Legend Airlifted To Burn Center Following Horrific Car Racing Crash

UFC icon Randy Couture, 62, was airlifted to a burn center on Tuesday after a fiery single-car crash at a racetrack in Kansas City.

The mixed martial arts legend was slated to make his National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) racing debut this year.

Sources confirmed to ESPN that Couture sustained first- and second-degree burns, trauma injuries, and smoke inhalation in the accident.

UFC legend Randy Couture airlifted to burn center after frightening NHRA practice crash https://t.co/bhgkhSzDus pic.twitter.com/RSRdBdPUyS

— New York Post (@nypost) July 9, 2025

TMZ initially reported the accident:

The 62-year-old fighter, actor and Army vet completely wrecked the car he was driving at the time of the incident … although it’s unclear what caused it.

He was rushed to a nearby burn center for treatment … where he remains at this time.

Luckily, we’re told he is expected to recover.

Couture — a UFC Hall of Famer — has been practicing in the pro stock division for his upcoming race campaign.

Just months ago, Scag Racing announced a Pro Mod program in the NHRA … with Couture going through the licensing process in order to compete sometime in 2025.

Randy Couture Airlifted To Burn Center With Serious Injuries After Crash https://t.co/BDefhDte3c

— TMZ (@TMZ) July 9, 2025

Fox News shared Couture’s thoughts on his upcoming racing debut:

Last month, Couture shared his excitement about the opportunity to take to the track in 2025.

“It’s a whole different animal,” Couture said during an appearance on the “Bubba The Love Sponge Show.” “Sitting in the stands, it looks easy. They say, ‘Oh, he just goes fast.’ But there is so much more involved.”

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“This is a new way to tickle that competitive spirit that I’ve had most of my life; a new place for me to get competitive and make a mark in racing,” Couture added. “I’ll bring all the things I developed as a wrestler and martial artist into this realm and see what we can do. I have no idea how it’s going to go, but I’m excited about the opportunities.”

Couture finished his MMA career with a 19-11 record. Couture earned titles in UFC’s light heavyweight and heavyweight divisions during his standout career. He retired in 2011.