Suspended for two years, Toquinho defends himself and cites referee's 'obvious error'

R. Toquinho (photo) was punished by the Nevada Athletic Commission after controversy. Photo: Josh Hedges/UFC

This Thursday (29), the Brazilian Rousimar Toquinho was judged by the Nevada Athletic Commission and suspended for two years after another episode in which he held back for a long time a finish, against Jake Shields, In the event World Series of Fighting. After the regulatory body's decision, Toquinho spoke out and questioned the punishment, citing an alleged error by central referee Steve Mazaggatti in his explanation.

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“I do not agree with the punishment, both the suspension and the fine. Many untruths were uttered. They did not take into account the obvious error made by referee Steve Mazzagatti, who was positioned completely inappropriately at the time of the final. Had the judge been in the right position, perhaps none of this would have happened. Unfortunately, I will have to accept this unfair decision, complying with the suspension and paying the fine”, said the Brazilian, through an official statement sent to the press.

Now 35 years old, Rousimar Palhares, who has a professional record of 18 wins and five losses in professional MMA, had already been suspended by the WSOF and also had his welterweight belt stripped. Episodes like this, however, are nothing new in Toquinho's career. In 2013, he was fired from the UFC after holding on to a submission for longer than necessary in a fight against Mike Pierce.

Check out the official note released by Toquinho below:

I participated in today's hearing to tell the truth and accept responsibility for my actions. I thank the commission for making an exception for the first time and giving me the opportunity to participate in the trial via videoconference. I know all the inconvenience and complication this caused, but I thank you once again for understanding my current condition.

Despite this, I do not agree with the punishment, both the suspension and the fine. Many untruths were uttered. They did not take into account the obvious error made by referee Steve Mazzagatti, who was positioned completely inappropriately at the time of the final. Had the judge been in the right position, perhaps none of this would have happened.

Unfortunately, I will have to accept this unfair decision, complying with the suspension and paying the fine. I will reflect on all these events and, together with my manager Alex Davis, I will make the best decision for the continuation of my career.