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The recent UFC Atlantic City bout between Bruno Silva and Chris Weidman has stirred up a storm of controversy, with Silva now appealing his loss due to multiple eye pokes from Weidman. In a candid interview, Silva expressed his frustration, stating that Weidman "acted in bad faith" and criticizing the referee's handling of the situation.
Silva's third-round TKO loss to Weidman was marred by several eye pokes, including ones that directly preceded the fight-stopping sequence. Silva immediately protested, highlighting the severity of the situation. Despite Silva's pleas and the evident eye pokes captured on replay, the commission ruled the result as a technical decision in favor of Weidman, a decision Silva and many others in the MMA community believe was unfair.
In his interview, Silva didn't hold back, stating,
"The referee was bizarre. He f***** up, and then f***** up on top of that. The least they could do is a no-contest."
He further expressed his disappointment in the New Jersey commission's handling of the matter, feeling that they unfairly favored Weidman with their decision.
Silva plans to file an appeal with the commission, seeking a fair resolution to the controversy.
"I just want things done the right way, the fairway," Silva emphasized, echoing the sentiments of many fans and fighters who believe justice should prevail in such cases.
Weidman's response and behavior post-fight also came under scrutiny. Silva accused Weidman of acting in bad faith, citing Weidman's continual use of finger-pointing strikes despite warnings against it. Silva's frustration with Weidman's lack of accountability was evident as he remarked,
"To be told off by the guy that is in the wrong is unbelievable, right?"
While Silva initially maintained a level of respect toward Weidman as an MMA legend, the events of UFC Atlantic City have changed his perspective. Silva made it clear that if a rematch were to happen, it would be a different story, with no loyalty expected from his side.
The fallout from this fight underscores the importance of fair play and proper officiating in MMA, and Silva's appeal signals a push for accountability and justice in the sport.