By ETT 
In a shocking upset that has sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts community, former UFC lightweight champion, Anthony “Showtime” Pettis, was defeated by unbeaten prospect, Niko Price, in a controversial split decision on the preliminary card of UFC 310. The fight, which headlined the prelims, was a back-and-forth affair that saw both fighters have their moments, but it was Price who ultimately emerged victorious on the judges’ scorecards.
The Controversy
The controversy surrounding the decision stems from the fact that many observers felt that Pettis had done enough to win the fight. Pettis, a veteran of the sport with a long history of success, appeared to have the better of the striking exchanges and landed the more significant shots. Price, on the other hand, was able to take Pettis down several times and control him on the ground, but his striking was less effective.
“I thought Anthony Pettis did enough to win that fight,” said UFC commentator Joe Rogan after the decision was announced. “He landed the cleaner shots and controlled the pace of the fight for the most part.”
The Judges’ Decision
The three judges who scored the fight all had it 29-28 in favor of Price. The first judge, Sal D’Amato, gave Price the first and third rounds, while giving Pettis the second. The second judge, Derek Cleary, gave Price the first and second rounds, while giving Pettis the third. The third judge, Junichiro Kamijo, also gave Price the first and second rounds, while giving Pettis the third.
“I understand that the judges have a difficult job, but I think they got this one wrong,” said Pettis after the fight. “I felt like I did enough to win, but it is what it is.”
The Reaction
The reaction to the decision from fans and media alike has been overwhelmingly negative. Many have taken to social media to express their outrage, calling the decision a “robbery.” Some have even gone so far as to accuse the judges of corruption.
“This is the worst decision I have ever seen in the UFC,” wrote one fan on Twitter. “Anthony Pettis clearly won that fight.”
“The judges need to be fired,” wrote another fan. “This is a disgrace to the sport.”
The Broader Implications
The controversial decision in the Pettis vs. Price fight has raised some serious questions about the judging system in the UFC. Some have argued that the current system is flawed and that it needs to be changed. Others have argued that the judges are simply human and that they are bound to make mistakes from time to time.
Regardless of where one stands on the issue, it is clear that the controversial decision in the Pettis vs. Price fight has damaged the UFC’s reputation. The UFC is widely considered to be the premier mixed martial arts promotion in the world, and it is important that it has a fair and impartial judging system in place. The UFC has already taken steps to address the issue, announcing that it will be reviewing the judging system and making changes as necessary.
Conclusion
The controversial decision in the Anthony Pettis vs. Niko Price fight has sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts community. Many fans and media members believe that Pettis was robbed of a victory, and the decision has raised serious questions about the judging system in the UFC. The UFC has already taken steps to address the issue, and it is likely that changes will be made to the judging system in the future. However, it is clear that the controversial decision in the Pettis vs. Price fight has damaged the UFC’s reputation, and it is important that the UFC takes steps to restore its fans’ confidence in the judging system.
