Jan Blachowicz lambastes Alex Pereira’s callout of Israel Adesanya, Jiri Prochazka downplays stoppage controversy, and Usman Nurmagomedov denies cheating ahead of Bellator 300. It’s you Sunday MMA Quick Hits for November 12, 2023!
Usman Nurmagomedov says he’s no cheater
Not quite in those exact words, but Usman Nurmagomedov, whose win over Brent Primus at Bellator 300 has been overturned due to unauthorized use of prescription medication, has denied intentionally cheating.
On social media, Nurmagomedov, cousin of UFC Hall of Famer Khabib, gave his side of the story.
“The results of my test revealed a prohibited substance that entered my body through medications, prescribed to me by a doctor,” Nurmagomedov stated. “A few months before my fight, I was undergoing treatment, but unfortunately I did not notify the athletic commission in advance.”
“I would like to note that the California state athletic commission conducted its own full investigation, where I provided all the necessary documents, doctor notes and medical certificates, thanks to which the period of my disqualification was reduced to 6 months, instead of longer suspensions accepted in such cases.”
Nurmagomedov’s manager previously denied that his client had cheated, and suggested that the Dagestani might somehow get back into Bellator’s lightweight grand prix. Currently, he remains the promotion’s lightweight champion, though his win over Primus has been overturned to a No Contest.
Jan Blachowicz no fan of Pereira’s Izzy callout
Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz had some strong words after rival Alex Pereira, who defeated him earlier this year on the scorecards, called out Israel Adesanya after capturing 205lb gold at UFC 295 on Saturday.
“I know you’re a slimy one. Calling out Izzy,” Blachowicz stated on social media. “Great performance and all but STFU, we have unfinished business, you and I. The judges won’t give you handouts next time. Pathetic.”
The UFC’s light heavyweight title has changed hands repeatedly since Daniel Cormier retired and Jon Jones vacated the belt to move to heavyweight. It appears, however, that Jamahal Hill is next in line for Pereira.
Jiri Prochazka okay with UFC 295 stoppage
Ex-light heavyweight champ Jiri Prochazka did not protest the stoppage in his fight against Alex Pereira at UFC 295.
While many observers felt the ref jumped in early, Prochazka himself was at peace with the call following the fight.
“I think that in that end, it was right,” Prochazka said following the loss, in his in-cage interview with Joe Rogan. “I was out, but you know I will never stop.”
