UFC Vegas 89 bore witness to one of the most blatant incidents of biting in recent memory, as Igor Severino attempted to take a chunk out of Andre Lima in their preliminary card fight.
The foul resulted in an immediate disqualification for Severino, with Lima left showing off a deep bite mark on his arm following the bout. It came during a takedown attempt/grappling sequence near the fence, and unlike many biting incidents, was far from a case of a fighter inadvertently biting an opponent’s arm while draped across their face in a choke.
Andre Lima picks up the win over Igor Severino due to a DQ from Severino, who bit Lima’s arm 😳 #UFCVegas89 pic.twitter.com/NQTJuSh9G3
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) March 23, 2024
As it turns out, the foul also cost Severino, who was previously undefeated along with Lima, his job. UFC President Dana White confirmed that development to reporter Kevin Iole following the bout.
“Those were two up-and-coming undefeated fighters,” White stated. “If you get frustrated and want out of the fight, there are plenty of ways to do it, but the worst thing u can do is bite your opponent. Now, you get cut and lose the biggest opportunity of your life. Not to mention, he’s going to have real problems with the NSAC.”
The UFC Vegas 89 broadcast also quoted the statement from White as the main card got underway on Saturday.
Both fighters had come into the promotion by way of the Contender Series, with the battle of undefeated prospects one that stood out on the UFC Vegas 89 card. Turns out, it will be remembered for all the wrong reasons, which also winds up being rather unfortunate for Lima.
