UFC 211 took place last night with a few exhilarating performances. The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) hosted two title fights for the night’s main and co-main events. But, the mixed martial arts promotion’s event did not go without its controversy.
Former UFC lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez was set to face Dustin Poirier. The two mixed martial artists put on an excellent display, but the fight was cut short. A series of potentially illegal blows to the head forced the fight to a halt.
Alvarez had his opponent against the cage. With Poirier’s gloves on the mat, the former champion began landing knees to his opponents head. The strikes were largely considered illegal strikes to a downed opponent by many of the night’s spectators.
The strikes brought the fight to an end, as Dustin Poirier was unable to compete any further. However, the fight was ruled a no contest, rather fan a victory in Poirier’s favor. The official decision has since drawn some controversy from fighters and fans.
Among them, former UFC owner Lorenzo Fertitta has given his opinion on the call. In the post-fight press conference, UFC President Dana White explained that Fertitta had texted him about the fight call. “Fertitta texted me tonight and said, ‘You guys have gotta get instant replay, because that was the wrong call.'” White said.