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Daniel Cormier spoke out in defense of the fighters who may face consequences for celebrating their victories at UFC 329. “DC” does not understand the Nevada State Athletic Commission’s decision and believes that punishing fighters for spontaneous celebrations should not happen.
The aftermath of UFC 329 may prove costly for Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett, among others. Part of the British fighter’s paycheck has been withheld due to the way he celebrated his victory. However, the commission did not specify exactly which of his gestures constituted a violation of the rules.
The whole situation has caused quite a stir in the MMA community. Critics of the decision point out that fighters spend years working their way up to the world’s largest organization, and victories on such a stage generate immense excitement. For many, therefore, the attempt to control their reactions after a fight is incomprehensible.
Daniel Cormier shares this view. The UFC Hall of Famer, who commentated on UFC 329 alongside Jon Anik and Joe Rogan, spoke out on his YouTube channel.
The former champion in two weight classes does not dispute the need for rules designed to ensure the safety of the fighters. In his view, however, punishing fighters for what they do after winning is an entirely different matter.
“We play a sport that can be absurd at times,” said Cormier. “Three fighters from UFC 329 are facing disciplinary hearings because of the way they celebrated their victories. I have to be honest: this is probably the most absurd rule in mixed martial arts.” Sure, we have rules. You can’t kick your opponent in the groin. Of course you shouldn’t do that. You also aren’t allowed to poke someone in the eyes or do certain other things during a fight.
“DC” finds it particularly hard to accept that athletes would have to hold back their emotions immediately after one of the most important moments of their careers.
“But telling me that a fighter can’t celebrate a victory with enthusiasm is absurd,” he continued. “Now you’re telling me that Max Holloway, Paddy Pimblett, and Gable Steveson will have to appear before the Nevada State Athletic Commission because of their celebrations.”
Cormier also pointed out the rules prohibiting fighters from climbing onto the top of the octagon fence. If that is what the commission’s concerns are about, the former champion has no doubt that the rules should be changed.
– They tell you you can’t jump on top of the cage… But you just can’t help yourself! You really can’t… That rule is completely absurd.
The issues affect a total of three UFC 329 fighters. In addition to Pimblett, payments have also been withheld from the “Fight of the Night” winner, Max “Blessed” Holloway, and UFC debutant Gable Steveson.
All three will have to wait for a decision from the Nevada State Athletic Commission. The issue of the suspended payouts is set to be discussed at a meeting scheduled for next week. Only then will the fighters find out whether their spontaneous celebrations after their victories will also have financial consequences.
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