UFC releases fighter after DQ for biting opponent

Jeff Wagenheim

Mar 23, 2024, 09:06 PM ET

Igor Severino’s UFC career lasted barely a round and a half on Saturday night before he was disqualified for biting his opponent and subsequently released from the fight promotion.

The 20-year-old Brazilian fighter, making his Octagon debut at a UFC Fight Night event in Las Vegas, was engaged in an all-action bout with countryman Andre Lima when, with the fighters standing in a clinch against the cage midway through Round 2, Lima suddenly recoiled and lifted his left arm for referee Chris Tognoni to see.

The ref immediately halted the action and brought in a Nevada State Athletic Commission doctor, who examined Lima’s arm. After a bite mark was observed on the arm, Tognoni waved off the bout.

The end came at 2:52 of the round and resulted in the first career loss for Severino (9-1). Lima, who also was making his UFC debut, moved to 8-0.

Shortly afterward, Kevin Iole reported that UFC CEO Dana White was cutting Severino.

“Those were two up-and-coming undefeated fighters,” White told Iole via text. “If you get frustrated and want out of the fight, there are plenty of ways to do it, but the worst thing u can do is bite your opponent. Now, you get cut and lose the biggest opportunity of your life. Not to mention, he’s going to have real problems with the NSAC.”