Diaz (left) suffered a deformed eye in the fight against Masvidal (right). Photo: Reproduction / Facebook ufc
The unexpected ending of the main fight of UFC 244 It still has something to talk about, but not in a positive way. The doctor responsible for interrupting the fight at the turn of the third to fourth round, Nitin K. Sethi, stated that he was threatened with death after the decision that put an end to the main fight of the night. In an interview with 'MMA Fighting' the neurologist spoke about the situation.
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“I’m a great neurologist and a very good doctor. They cursed me on the internet, called my office and cursed people. They made death threats to me,” said the professional.
Nitin also confessed that he is afraid of the negative repercussions he had when making the decision that had as a priority to maintain the physical integrity of Diaz, who visibly had a deep wound above his right eye.
“I fear for my safety. Someone could get hurt by all of this, and it would probably be me. People don't realize what they are doing when they act like this. This is the harsh reality of MMA. It's a shame that this kind of thing happens. Everyone involved in this sport should feel embarrassed by situations like this. Things like this shouldn't happen in MMA. I've never experienced this, and I've played in many sports. People are very excited, and this kind of thing only exalts them even more. On the way backstage, I saw people cursing me very angrily” confessed Sethi.
During the three rounds played, Jorge's superiority over his opponent was visible. With blunt blows, the affected area on Nate ended up becoming a target where Masvidal launched most of his attacks. Therefore, trying to avoid further damage, the doctor chose to prevent the North American from continuing to act.
“I made an objective decision based on the examination I made of the fighter. It wasn't just the cut, but a general analysis of it and how the fight was developing. From the moment I realized that I could not guarantee his safety and his health, I had to make the decision,” he confirmed.
Despite the incident, the doctor stated that he does not regret the action he took. According to him, there is a work standard that will not be changed, regardless of the displeasure of any party, whoever it may be.
“If, at any point, I lose my objectivity and start worrying about how my decisions will be seen by the UFC, the fans and the press, I will stop being the fight doctor and abandon my career. His health comes first,” he concluded.
The company's president, Dana White, in a press conference after the show stated that, at first, he was also irritated by Sethi's decision. However, according to the agent, after he went to the locker room to see Nate, he agreed with the neurologist's attitude.
This Tuesday, the medical suspensions obtained after the UFC 244. The North American, along with six other athletes, was the one who had the longest period of absence. He will be out of action for 90 days.
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