Igor Severino’s controversial disqualification for biting Andre Lima during their bout at UFC Vegas 89 sent shockwaves through the MMA world, raising questions about sportsmanship and the consequences of unsportsmanlike conduct in the octagon.
The incident occurred in the second round when Lima found himself in the clinch, defending against Severino’s advances as he pressed him into the fence and was attempting to get into a better position. In a moment of sheer frustration or perhaps desperation, Severino resorted to a shocking tactic by biting Lima on his left arm. The referee promptly intervened and, after reviewing the footage, made the decision to disqualify Severino.
See the footage from twitter here:
Igor Severino was disqualified from UFC on his debut Fight Night after biting his opponent , Andre Lima, on the arm during their flyweight bout.😳 pic.twitter.com/2Q4qE4ncl3
— Sports Radio Brila FM (@Brilafm889) March 24, 2024
UFC president Dana White wasted no time in addressing the incident, expressing his disappointment in Severino’s actions. In a reported text message to respected MMA journalist, Kevin Iole of keviniole.com, White announced Severino’s expulsion from the UFC, emphasizing the severity of his actions and the missed opportunity for both 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,” White stated.
Severino’s biting offense not only cost him the match but also jeopardized his standing with the Nevada Athletic Commission, potentially leading to further consequences.
In a surprising turn of events, White decided to double the prize money for Lima, awarding him the first-ever ‘Bite of the Night’ bonus in UFC history. Lima, who was visibly shaken by the incident, took to social media to share images of the bite marks on his bicep, turning the bizarre encounter into a permanent reminder of his resilience. Grateful for the recognition from White, Lima expressed his readiness for future challenges in the octagon, eager to build on this memorable debut.
The unfortunate incident overshadowed the main event of the evening, where Rose Namajunas secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Amanda Ribas in her second fight at flyweight. Despite Ribas’ valiant effort, Namajunas outstruck her opponent and claimed victory after five rounds of intense competition, reaffirming her status as a force to be reckoned with in the division.
Severino’s biting incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of sportsmanship and integrity in MMA, highlighting the need for stricter disciplinary measures to prevent such unsavory incidents in the future. As the MMA community reflects on this shocking turn of events, fighters and fans alike are reminded of the values that define the sport and the consequences of straying from them.
The UFC is CUTTING Igor Severino after biting his opponent tonight at #UFCVegas89
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) March 24, 2024
per @KevinI pic.twitter.com/Em0J25xf6Y
