The recent decision by the UFC to release Igor Severino following his biting incident has stirred up a storm of controversy within the MMA community. Questions regarding the promotion’s consistency have been raised, particularly in light of past controversies involving other fighters.
The incident occurred during UFC Vegas 89, held at the UFC Apex arena in Las Vegas on March 23. Severino, making his UFC debut, faced off against fellow newcomer Andre Lima in a highly anticipated bout on the preliminary card. However, the match took an unexpected turn when Severino bit Lima’s left bicep during a clinch against the cage wall.
Referee Chris Tognoni intervened immediately upon Lima’s protest, prompting a review of the footage. The visible mark on Lima’s arm led to Severino’s disqualification midway through the second round.
While disqualification for such an offense is not uncommon, the subsequent actions taken by the UFC have raised eyebrows. UFC CEO Dana White announced Severino’s release from the promotion, indicating that he would face repercussions from the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC). Additionally, Lima, the victim of the biting incident, was awarded a $50,000 bonus.
White expressed his disappointment in Severino’s actions, stating, “Those were two up-and-coming undefeated fighters. If you get frustrated and want out of the fight, there are plenty of ways to do it, but the worst thing you can do is bite your opponent. Now, you get cut and lose the biggest opportunity of your life. Not to mention, he’s going to have real problems with the NSAC.”
The UFC’s decisions regarding Severino’s punishment ignited a fierce debate on social media among MMA enthusiasts. While many understood the disqualification, the decision to release Severino from the promotion was met with criticism. Some fans pointed out perceived inconsistencies, noting that the UFC has retained athletes with a history of worse behavior.
One such example is UFC veteran Gilbert Yvel, whose career spanned from 1997 to 2018. Yvel’s tenure in the UFC was marked by controversy, including multiple instances of biting and eye-gouging opponents. However, his most notorious incident occurred at Fight Festival 12 in 2004 when he knocked out a referee after disagreeing with a stoppage decision, resulting in his disqualification.
The comparison between Severino’s punishment and the UFC’s handling of past cases involving athletes like Yvel has fueled discussions about fairness and accountability within the sport. As the debate rages on, it underscores the importance of consistent enforcement of disciplinary measures to uphold the integrity of MMA competition.