In an unusual scene at Milwaukee’s Potawatomi Casino and Event Center during #APFC14, Steven Baker appeared in the cage with medical tape covering what commentators identified as a subdermal piercing – a type of body modification that’s embedded beneath the skin’s surface.
The peculiar situation caught the attention of cage-side observers who noted that while Baker had removed his standard earrings before the competition, the subdermal piercing remained in place, presumably because it couldn’t be safely removed.
“I don’t even know how to remove that,” one commentator remarked during the broadcast, highlighting the unique nature of the situation. Another suggested, somewhat jokingly, that “some pliers and you just yank it out,” though medical professionals would likely disagree with such an approach.
The presence of the taped piercing didn’t appear to impact the outcome of the contest, as Matt Wroblewski secured a rear-naked choke victory in the opening round. However, the incident has sparked discussions about body modifications in professional sports and safety protocols.
Subdermal piercings, unlike traditional piercings, are considered semi-permanent modifications that typically require minor surgical procedures for removal. This explains why Baker couldn’t simply remove it like his other jewelry before entering the cage.
“That feels like permanent, like that feels like a permanent decision,” observed one commentator, underlining the commitment such body modifications require.
This incident marks what many veteran observers called a first in professional competition, with one noting, “This is definitely a first for me.”
Matt Wroblewski gets the submission (RNC) against Steven Baker in the first round.
