Ilir Latifi has faced a big-time suspension from the Nevada State Athletic Commission for competing in a fight at UFC Fight Night 211 despite having a staph infection.
After the commission meeting, they announced the suspension of the heavyweight fighter for admitting to suffering from the infection yet choosing to compete. Furthermore, the suspension would serve its course with disciplinary action.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Latifi revealed in a post-fight interview that he suffered from the infection but didn’t even inform his coach about it. Meanwhile, he also revealed that it swelled his leg the entire time. The commission called his decision risky. Moreover, officials added that they cannot tolerate such behavior.
Latifi called out Mark Zuckerberg for help post-fight
Latifi had fought against veteran UFC heavyweight, Aleksei Oleinik, in three round fight. The pair fought to a decision where the Swede gained a comprehensive decision to win. Moreover, improved his record to 17-8.
Post-fight, not only did he talk about the staph infection but also called out Mark Zuckerberg, who was present at the event. The fighter made the most out of his mic time and asked for a fight bonus. However, he didn’t ask the UFC for it but instead asked Zuckerberg. His “help us” statement made headlines.
Moreover, fans were unhappy with the UFC because of this incident. They indicated it wasn’t in good light for the company that the fighter had to call out someone else other than the company for a bonus that is $50k in the UFC. Latifi also hinted at retirement after the fight, considering his age (39).
Fans reacting to Ilir Latifi fighting with a staph infection
After the news broke out, fans had a very mixed reaction to the entire incident. On one hand, some were blaming the UFC and stated that fighting was compulsory for him. Meanwhile, on the other hand, people called him out for trying to spread the infection purposely.
ALSO READ: Joe Rogan Makes His Pick for the ‘Most Impressive’ Knockout Artist in Boxing History
Many fans reacted to the news.
No fight, No pay. Don’t blame him. Everyone would do that
— dgoat (@dgoat911) October 18, 2022
Ewwww….especially when you literally just sit on that person and grind em.
— For Rucks Sake (@RucksSake) October 18, 2022
Social media users had several things to say.
I’ve always wondered how guys get cleared to fight with staph infections. I like that they’re trying to stop it. Staph infections can fuck people up shouldn’t be exposing your opponent to it
— Caleb Larkins (@larkins_caleb) October 18, 2022
Thus, many people also questioned the officials.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
And how did the athletic commissions overlook that? Where was the staph infection?
— Maximum Power (@TheMaximumPower) October 18, 2022
Thus, the incident invited people to discuss it and share their opinions online.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What do you think of his suspension? Let us know.
WATCH THIS STORY: From Hollywood to MMA, Actors Who Took up Combat Discipline: Jason Statham, Tom Hardy & More
Challenge Your Sports Knowledge!
Solve the puzzle and prove your knowledge of iconic players, terms, and moments.