In a rarely seen about face, the New Jersey State Athletic Commission has overturned a recent loss suffered by heavyweight Fabricio Werdum at PFL 3.
ESPN was first to report that the loss had been overturned to a no contest, following a review by the commission. Werdum, a former UFC heavyweight champion making his promotional debut in the fight, had appeared to have trapped opponent Renan Ferreira in a triangle choke in the opening round of the fight, forcing a tap. But when Werdum loosened the hold, the fight was allowed to continue, and Ferreira scored a ground n’ pound TKO.
The fight took place in Atlantic City, NJ last Thursday, making the timing of the decision rather remarkable. Werdum’s manager later confirmed the news with a statement on social media.
I want to thank the New Jersey Athletic Commission, Mr. Nick Lembo who worked all weekend on over turning Fabricio Werdum’s decision to a NO Contest from his last week at PFL. I also want to thank PFL for quickly providing all of the necessary evidence.
— Ali Abdelaziz (@AliAbdelaziz00) May 10, 2021
“I want to thank the New Jersey Athletic Commission, Mr. Nick Lembo who worked all weekend on over turning Fabricio Werdum’s decision to a NO Contest from his last week at PFL. I also want to thank PFL for quickly providing all of the necessary evidence,” he wrote.
Had he won the bout, Werdum (24-9-1, 1NC) would have earned six points towards a spot in the PFL’s 2021 playoff season. Immediately following the end of the fight, Werdum protested the stoppage. Replays appeared to show a tap by fellow Brazilian Ferreira.
With the result of the fight being overturned, PFL officials have opted to award both Werdum and Ferreira a single point in the standings.
