Alessio Di Chirico Apologizes to Dana White for Post-Fight Interaction

Italian middleweight Alessio Di Chirico started the year off with a bang. He featured in the first fight card of 2021 and knocked out Joaquin Buckley in an emphatic fashion. Buckley was the favorite going into the fight, as many expected him to add to his ever-increasing collection of highlight-reel knockouts. But Di Chirico turned the tables on his opponent and came up with his own head kick knockout.

After the fight, the Italian arrived at the press conference but left immediately, taking no questions. He chalked this up to his dislike of the media, only interviewing the winner as his cause. Dana White was also left stunned as he said that Di Chirico was furious backstage, much to his surprise.

But ‘Manzo’ cleared the air on the situation recently and apologized to the UFC President for the misunderstanding.

“So I think it would be fair to put some lights to the guys who lose their fights, as well – if they are in good health, obviously. That’s it. I didn’t mean you should interview a knocked-out guy from his stretcher,” he said. “I was emotional. I’m a sportsman. I deeply respect every guy who’s sharing the octagon with me. I know the pain they go through because I’ve been in that sh*t more than once.

“Man, what a shame. I’m so sorry he could have thought like this,” Di Chirico said. “I don’t think there could have been someone happier than me and my team all over the world at that moment – total misunderstanding.”

It was a good show of respect on his part to clear the air about the misunderstanding with the UFC President Dana White. In his defense, he was emotional after ending his 3-fight losing streak- something which may have played a factor in his actions.

What’s next for Di Chirico?

Since debuting in 2016 in the UFC, Di Chirico has gone 4-5 in the promotion. He earned his first win since 2018 against Buckley. ‘Manzo’ joined the organization as an undefeated prospect, but hasn’t fulfilled his potential in the organization.

The Italian will look to keep the momentum going and build on his latest win. With the 185 lbs stacked more than ever, he needs to do that in order to stay relevant.

Who should Di Chirico fight next? What did you make of his post-fight actions?