In the high-octane world of mixed martial arts (MMA), unexpected moments can alter a fighter’s trajectory in an instant. Such was the case for Igor Severino, a promising 20-year-old Brazilian fighter who recently made his UFC debut at UFC Vegas 89. Unfortunately, it wasn’t his impressive skills or determination that made headlines—it was an act of aggression that left fans and officials stunned.
During his flyweight bout against fellow Brazilian Andre Lima, Severino found himself in a precarious position. In the second round, as Lima attempted a takedown along the fence, Severino inexplicably bit into Lima’s left tricep. Referee Chris Tognoni swiftly intervened, and the fight was halted. Lima was declared the winner via disqualification, and Severino’s UFC career took a dark turn.
From Dream to Nightmare for Igor Severino
Igor Severino’s life changed dramatically within days. He went from realizing his dream of fighting in the world’s premier MMA promotion to being banned from it. His face flooded social media, and the fallout was swift. But it wasn’t just the disqualification that haunted him; it was the aftermath.
Igor Severino says multiple family members, including his mother have received threatening messages after the incident at #UFCVegas89 😕#UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/lIwz9ttQsf
— Sportskeeda MMA (@sportskeedaMMA) March 30, 2024
Threats and Disrespect to Igor Severino and his family
Igor Severino’s family bore the brunt of the incident. Multiple family members, including his mother, received threatening messages from outraged fans. The same fans who once cheered for him now turned against him, disrespecting his loved ones. Severino, choked with emotion, expressed deep regret for his actions.
“They have been going after my loved ones,” Igor Severino said, choking up. “They’re disrespecting them. There have been death threats. My mother doesn’t have anything to do with it. My family doesn’t have anything to do with it. People are acting like I killed somebody, like I’m a criminal. What I did was wrong but it was far from a crime. They’re treating me like I’m the worst person in the world.
Igor Severino’s memory of the biting incident remains hazy. He recalls everything until he was struck hard during the fight. After that, he was on autopilot, unable to remember the sequence of events. The action was out of character for him, and there had been no prior issues in his previous fights.
However, Lima the bitten opponent, harbored no ill feelings toward Severino. He understood the struggles they both faced, having come from similar backgrounds. Lima’s manager even suggested that Severino deserved compassion, given their shared journey.
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