Photo courtesy NHRA/National Dragster

Legendary UFC Hall of Famer, actor, and commentator Randy Couture was seriously injured on Tuesday, July 8, during a private test session at Flying H Dragstrip near Kansas City, Missouri. The 62-year-old was piloting his SCAG Power Equipment-backed 1937 Chevy Pro Mod in preparation for his NHRA Pro Mod debut at the upcoming U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis.

Multiple sources, including TMZ, confirm Couture suffered first- and second-degree burns, suspected broken ribs, and smoke inhalation after a violent crash. He was airlifted from the track to a regional burn center, where he remains in stable condition.

The cause of the crash has not been disclosed. Track officials and team members have not released an official statement regarding the incident or extent of the damage to Couture’s racecar.

Randy Couture had been working through NHRA licensing requirements throughout the year, with the goal of making his competitive debut at the Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals over Labor Day Weekend. The accident raises uncertainty about whether he will be cleared to compete by that time, or have a racecar with which to compete.

“This is a new way to tickle that competitive spirit that I’ve had most of my life,” Couture said previously about his unique endeavour into drag racing. “I’ll bring all the things I developed as a wrestler and martial artist into this realm and see what we can do.”

The SCAG Racing Pro Mod program, announced earlier this year, marked a high-profile entry into the NHRA Pro Mod ranks, with the starpower of Couture entering the sport as its marquee driver.

Randy Couture, a six-time UFC champion and U.S. Army veteran, was one of MMA’s earliest breakout stars and remains one of the sport’s most respected figures.