Randy Couture Crash Leaves UFC Icon with Severe Burns in NHRA Debut Attempt
So here’s the low-key attention-grabber: UFC heavyweight legend Randy Couture was airlifted to a burn center after a practice crash at a Kansas City racetrack, TMZ Sports reports. Couture, 62, who’s gearing up for his pro stock debut in the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA), wiped out during test runs on Tuesday. Witnesses say the car was engulfed in flames almost immediately, and Couture suffered first- and second-degree burns, trauma injuries, and smoke inhalation. Per TMZ Sports and a statement from Scag Racing’s Pro Mod program announcement, the wreck was bad enough to total the chassis, though exact causes remain under investigation.
Couture—an Army vet turned six-time UFC champ and Hall of Famer—is no stranger to high-stakes moments, but this one forced him off the track and into a nearby specialized burn center. Sources close to the former fighter tell ESPN that he’s in stable condition and expected to recover, but he’ll be sidelined for initial licensing runs. NHRA officials confirmed the incident in an email to Drag Racing Today, noting burn unit protocols and thorough medical evaluation before any return to competition.
Back in March, Scag Racing hyped its Pro Mod program, proudly naming Couture as the new face of its NHRA endeavor. “This is a new way to tickle that competitive spirit that I’ve had most of my life,” Couture said in the team’s launch press release. “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.” So, heading into 2025, fans were buzzing about the crossover—from octagon to drag strip—and now those hopes are on pause.
Industry insiders point out that burn injuries in high-speed motorsport crashes are rare but serious. In recent years, NHRA has upgraded fire-suppression systems and crew training after several near-misses. Drag Racing Today noted that cars in the pro stock division routinely exceed 200 mph on the quarter-mile, meaning any failure can escalate in seconds. Championship mechanics and safety engineers will now review ignition systems, fuel lines, and fire-retardant gear in Couture’s ride.
Couture’s acting resume—from The Expendables franchise to guest spots on TV dramas—is on hold too, as he focuses on recovery. The MMA community and racing world have rallied on social media, sharing messages of support under #CoutureStrong. Scag Racing’s Instagram feed has lit up with well-wishes, while NHRA’s official channels promise updates as soon as medical and technical assessments wrap up.
Anyway, there you have it: a legend’s roar silenced by fire—but not for long, if rehab goes as planned. If this trend picks up traction, don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and TMZ Sports, Scag Racing press release, ESPN, Drag Racing Today
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
