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via Imago

via Imago

Jon Anik is making headlines in the MMA world. After UFC 297, the UFC commentator asserted that Dricus Du Plessis did defeat Sean Strickland on merit. But his comments received a vehement backlash from those MMA fans who disagreed with him, and it did not sit well with him. Following this, he teased leaving the sport and lashed out at the fans for their behavior.

Subsequently, he became susceptible to more criticism, scrutiny, and controversy, to the extent that he eventually apologized. His apology ignited several more opinions, but Ian Garry’s Wife had a peculiar response.

An unwanted apology, says Ian Garry’s wife

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One can argue that Anik said nothing controversial or polarizing, hence, there was no need for an apology. Ian Garry’s wife, Layla Anna-Lee also believes that there is an unwanted surge of criticism directed towards the UFC commentator. She claimed that he was solely exercising his freedom of speech and expression, which should not be questioned or judged.

On Instagram, while apologizing, Anik wrote, “I am just a fiery, passionate, flawed, empathetic guy and sometimes my emotions lead the dance. To those MMA fans whom I’ve offended, I am sorry,’ to which Layla commented, “Baffled by the apology. No way can I accept this. No way. You don’t have a right to an opinion now? “Free speech” is only for haters? No.”

Mrs. Garry is not the only one sharing this viewpoint. Shortly after Anik shared the apology several fans and noted MMA personalities like the legendary Bas Rutten, UFC stars Tom Aspinall, Bo Nickal, newly crowned UFC bantamweight champion Raquel Pennington, and ex-UFC star Amanda Nunes all came in with support. The vast majority of them declared their support for Anik and deemed the apology completely unnecessary.

 

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On top of this, Layla Anna-Lee also sided with Anik in this fiasco and considered an apology from him unwanted. Not to mention, judging by her comment, she holds this opinion with passion. However, amidst differing opinions, let’s take a look at how former middleweight champion and UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping perceived the situation.

Michael Bisping weighs in on Jon Anik Controversy

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According to Michael Bisping, negativity comes with the territory. Subsequently, it is inevitable to be under scrutiny for every little detail which may even be uncalled. Similar is the case with Anik, as he now finds himself in an online tussle with the MMA community at large that did not welcome his comments in good spirits. In his own podcast, Michael Bisping stated, “Going back to Jon’s comments there, I think ultimately it’s kind of a good thing if you think about it because, as you said, the sport has grown massively from where it was.” He added, the bigger the fan base, you’re gonna get some d*ckheads along for the ride as well.”

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It is safe to say that this debacle will dominate the headlines of the MMA world for quite a bit. Moreover, different insights and different perspectives make this controversy quite thought-provoking. So we value your opinions and are curious to know what you make of them. Share with us your thoughts in the comments below.

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Read more: “NFL Is a Better Choice for You” – Sean Strickland Reminds Jon Anik of His Paycheck After UFC Commentator Threatens to Leave MMA