Petr Yan apologizes for illegal knee to Aljamain Sterling at UFC 259: 'I made a big mistake'

P. Yan at a press conference after UFC 259. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube

The former UFC bantamweight champion (up to 61,2kg), Petr yan, he says he regrets having applied the illegal knee that disqualified him in the fight against aljamain sterling No. UFC 259. In a post-event press conference, the Russian stated that he had no intention of carrying out the blow and took the opportunity to wish the North American a speedy recovery.

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VIDEO: Watch the illegal blow that took away Petr Yan's belt and crowned Aljamain Sterling at UFC 259

Petr Yan throws illegal knee, is disqualified and loses belt to Aljamain Sterling at UFC 259

“I apologize and wish you a speedy recovery. aljamain sterling. I didn't want to carry out the illegal scam, I made a big mistake and I paid for it. Before the fight, the referee was paying close attention to the hand position when the fighter is on the ground or not. I was too focused on his hands and forgot about his legs. Obviously, I did not intend to make an illegal shot,” Yan said.

It is the first time that an Ultimate title has changed hands due to disqualification in history. Considering the balance of the fight, it is likely that the organization will try to reschedule 'aljamain sterling x Petr yan 2', with the belt up for grabs. However, everything will depend on the recovery of the North American, who may take a while to return after the unexpected result of the fight.

After being disqualified, Petr yan encounters his second career defeat. Now the new champion, aljamain sterling, won six consecutive victories and now holds the bantamweight belt for the first time.

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