White: Georges St-Pierre out due to colitis

UFC middleweight champion Georges St-Pierre is out indefinitely after being diagnosed with colitis, UFC president Dana White announced Friday, according to Brett Okamoto of ESPN.

White didn't offer a timetable for St-Pierre's return, only saying "he's out for a minute."

The 36-year-old confirmed the diagnosis in a statement on Facebook:

I now understand the health issues that I had during my last training camp ... I hoped my condition would improve after the fight but unfortunately it got worse and I had to go straight to the hospital for a colonoscopy when I came back from vacation last Wednesday. The diagnosis is ulcerative colitis and I am now taking medication that will hopefully appease the symptoms. My health is my #1 priority right now, I'm still a very happy man, thanks for your support!!!

Colitis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the colon and can result in abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhea. It can also cause other symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and joint swelling.

St-Pierre beat Michael Bisping to capture gold at UFC 217 following a four-year hiatus. When the Canadian is cleared to return, a matchup with interim champion Robert Whittaker likely awaits.