Dana White responds to DWCS fighter's allegations
Dana White has addressed an incident involving Dana White's Contender Series fighter Namo Fazil, who claimed he was attacked by 15 Chechens during his weight cut. The UFC president said the matter was handled internally, as reported by Yardbarker.
White was asked about the situation at the UFC Sacramento press conference, following Fazil's social media statements. "You guys have no idea how much s— goes on in this business behind the scenes," White said. He added that he had not discussed the incident with Baisangur Susurkaev, whom Fazil identified as Khamzat Chimaev's teammate. "I didn't even talk about it. You guys wouldn't even know about it if he didn't talk about it. We handled it behind the scenes and that's the business we're in. A lot of crazy s— happens behind the scenes in this business."
The incident and fight
Fazil's claim came after his main event bout against Kaik Brito on week two of Dana White's Contender Series season 10, which took place on Tuesday. Fazil was knocked out cold by an overhand right in the third round, a finish that fans have called the series' greatest knockout.
Fazil later revealed on social media that during his weight cut, he was "attacked by 15 Chechens," including Susurkaev. He stated that 15 people entered his hotel room, that Susurkaev slapped him twice, and that he did not want to fight but eventually reacted.
Counterclaims and reactions
Susurkaev has defended his actions as a response to Fazil's comments, saying, "If you talk s— about someone, you have to pay." His account contests Fazil's version of events. Khamzat Chimaev also weighed in, calling for unity between Chechens and Kurds: "Chechens and Kurds, we are Muslims, and we should stay united."
White's comments suggest that the UFC views the matter as a private internal issue rather than a public scandal, and he indicated that no punishment for Susurkaev is forthcoming.