Professional MMA Fighter Serves 9-Month Ban Due to Post-Bout Altercation
On the 27th of February, UFC vet Dennis Buzukja, from Longo MMA, found himself in hot water with the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC). The reason? A post-fight skirmish with an aggravating fan at T-Mobile Arena during UFC 310 in December.
Various reports suggest a nine-month suspension could be Buzukja's fate. However, with completion of community service in Nevada, it might get reduced to six months. He'll also cough up $2,500 and pay $157.04 in attorney fees. His suspension period, initially set to end on September 6, 2025, might see an early conclusion in June.
The conflict apparently originated from the rivalry between Buzukja's combat buddies, Aljamain Sterling and UFC men's bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili. They had beef with Umar Nurmagomedov, which apparently extended to his supporters.
A spectator, rumored to be a part of Nurmagomedov's circle, apparently taunted Dvalishvili as they exited the Octagon after Sterling lost a close fight to Movsar Evloev on December 7, 2024. Security intervened, but Buzukja and the antagonistic fan seemed to exchange blows.
Additional Insights:
Knowledge from enrichment data shows that the fan was Arman Tugaev, who had connections to the Nurmagomedovs. The altercation happened when Tugaev provoked Dvalishvili by grabbing his arm and uttering something in Russian. Buzukja joined the fray and was involved in the ensuing physical altercation.
Regarding Buzukja's current circumstances, it's essential to note that the suspension length might change depending on the NSAC's final decision. The initial nine-month suspension is still under consideration, but it could be reduced to six months with community service completion.
The timing of Buzukja's suspension doesn't look encouraging from a professional standpoint. He's recently faced a split-decision loss against Francis Marshall, and his UFC record since signing is 1-3. After a trio of losses, he managed to secure a performance-bonus-winning TKO win against Connor Matthews in March 2024.
If he can make it past his suspension, Buzukja might attempt to resurrect his UFC career around June or July. However, if he falters, he may find himself relieved of his position.
With his next fight on the horizon, Buzukja needs to be fully focused to avoid jeopardizing his future in the sport.
Dennis Buzukja, an UFC veteran from Longo MMA, is currently facing consequences for his involvement in a post-fight incident at UFC 310. UFC 312 is set to take place, but the suspension of Buzukja, who lost a split decision against Francis Marshall at UFC Fight Night, might affect his participation. The culprit in the skirmish with Buzukja was reportedly Arman Tugaev, a fan with connections to the Nurmagomedovs. Tugaev provoked UFC men's bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili outside the Octagon, leading to the incident. Arman Tugaev and Buzukja exchanged blows, resulting in potential consequences for both. Buzukja's suspension, initially set to end on September 6, 2025, could be reduced to six months if he completes community service in Nevada.
