Apparent hit-and-run accident leaves Bellator's Parsons with partially amputated leg

Finding out an athlete's career has been cut short is never an easy thing. Athletes, and perhaps most particularly fighters, tend to be relentless competitors by nature. When a fighter leaves the game in the middle of his career, it's rarely the move they wanted to make. More often fighting careers end suddenly because they have to. And in the case of Bellator featherweight Jordan Parson's case, it's because of what appears to be a terrible tragedy.

MMAFighting reports that the Bellator fighter was involved in what seems to have been a hit-and-run collision, in which he was struck by a motor vehicle while walking home. Teammate Rashad Evans stated on Instagram that the incident occurred late Saturday, April 30th in Del Ray, Florida. As a result of the accident, Parsons was left with a partially amputated right leg. He's currently listed in critical condition at Del Ray Medical center.

"Everyone say a prayer for my teammate @prettyboymma_jp who was hit by a car in a hit and run accident last night walking home. Jordan is now fighting for his life in a coma with an amputated leg.. Life is unbelievably fragile and precious.#pray#blackzilians#jordanparsons"

A photo posted by Suga Rashad Evans (@suga_rashadevans) on May 1, 2016 at 11:36am PDT

Parsons' upcoming bout with Adam Piccolotti on Bellator 154 has been cancelled. Parsons had been looking to rebound from a split decision loss to fellow prospect Bubba Jenkins back in November at Bellator 146. His upcoming fight was scheduled for May 14th in San Jose, California. No replacement opponent is expected for Piccolotti.

Update: Bellator has released the following statement on the incident:

Bellator statement on Jordan Parsons pic.twitter.com/njyjywfikY

— Jason Floyd (@Jason_Floyd) May 1, 2016