Weidman’s Controversial Victory: Eye Pokes and Accusations
Controversy in Atlantic City
Former UFC champion Chris Weidman secured his first win in years at UFC Atlantic City, yet it came with a hefty dose of controversy. In the third round, Weidman knocked Bruno Silva down, but replays showed that he had poked Silva in the eyes twice before landing a hit. Initially deemed a TKO victory for Weidman, the decision was later changed to a unanimous decision after the replay review, deeming the finish unfair but opting to check the scorecards instead, where Weidman had won all three rounds.
Weidman Questions Silva’s Intent
Post-fight, Weidman expressed satisfaction with his victory but criticized Silva’s reaction in the octagon. “I will never question a guy if he says he got poked in the eye, but you can’t just fall down every time you feel something touch your eye,” Weidman remarked during the press conference. He suggested Silva might have been looking for a way out of the match, highlighting the need for fighters to be prepared at all times.
Weidman Reflects on the Incident
Despite the victory, Weidman admitted his dissatisfaction with the eye pokes, attributing them to the nature of fighting with small gloves. “Did I want to poke him in the eye? No,” he continued, emphasizing the accidental nature of such incidents and his preference for a clean fight.
Weidman’s Comeback Journey
This win marks Weidman’s first since August 2020, with only two victories in his last six fights. Following a severe leg injury in April 2021, many doubted his return to the octagon. Yet, after a comeback fight in August 2023 against Brad Tavares, which he lost via decision, Weidman is determined to continue competing.
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This is wildest shit I've ever seen. A double eye poke combination lol. And this was just scored as a TKO for Weidman. Wild. pic.twitter.com/pmhLQ4Epvd
— MartialMind 🇳🇬🇺🇲 (@MartialMind1) March 31, 2024
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Chris Weidman on the post-fight press conference: “I will never question a guy if he says he got poked in the eye, but you can’t just fall down every time you feel something touch your eye.”
Weidman on the incident: “Did I want to poke him in the eye? No, I’m upset that I poked him in the eye. But when you’re fighting with these small gloves, it happens…”
