Commission updates on punishment for Igor Severino, Brazilian who bit rival and ended up fired from UFC

Pivot of unprecedented bite in the UFC and lightning dismissal in the organization, Igor Severino remains unable to compete in the United States. In a hearing held this Tuesday (30), the Nevada Athletic Commission denied a proposed agreement for a six-month suspension sentence, plus a fine of US$3,000 (around R$15,500). The suggested punishment was considered mild by members of the entity.

The ‘hook’ and financial penalty were suggested by Deputy Attorney General Matthew Feeley. The professional used as an argument the fact that the Brazilian’s unsportsmanlike action had not occurred in combat sports since the episode involving Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, in 1997.

The strategy, however, was not accepted by the members of the Commission. The jurors understood that the act carried out by Igor Severino should be treated as ‘serious’, and, therefore, provide a compatible punishment.

“The problem is that, if we approve it and the situation happens again, you must limit yourself to a six-month punishment. This is very dangerous for this commission, in my opinion,” said Commissioner Anthony Marnell, in an excerpt published by ‘MMA Fighting‘.

Without an agreement, Igor Severino will remain suspended and unable to compete. The Brazilian, who was not present at the negotiations, has a new hearing scheduled for May.

Understand the case

At the end of March, a clash between undefeated Brazilians had everything to be highlighted on the preliminary card of the UFC Las Vegas 89. A bite by Igor Severino on rival André Lima, however, marked the fight in a negative way.

Flyweight representatives, the athletes had a competitive first round. However, the second stage was marked by unsportsmanlike action never seen in the history of the organization.

Bite’s pivot, Severino was disqualified and suffered the first defeat of his career. Moments later, the UFC confirmed the dismissal of the 21-year-old promises.

Victim in the episode, André Lima ended up awarded by his boss, Dana White. The athlete received a ‘bite bonus’, taking home US$50 thousand (approximately R$259 thousand, at current exchange rates) offered by the boss.