Nevada Commission to Investigate UFC 279 Press Conference Skirmish

Footage of the altercations that ensued behind the scenes before the #UFC279 press conference (via @UFC) pic.twitter.com/kTNF1XiyMK

— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) September 10, 2022

The backstage scuffle that ultimately led to the cancellation of the UFC 279 pre-fight press conference is now under investigation by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

The NSAC issued a statement on Monday indicating that disciplinary action could be taken if it is determined that any “licensees acted improperly.” Last Thurday’s presser was cut short by UFC president Dana White, who revealed that it was an “absolute s—tshow” backstage. The melee reportedly began with an altercation between Khamzat Chimaev and Kevin Holland and escalated from there, with multiple groups taking part. Including fighter entourages, White claimed that there were up to 100 people involved in the incident. Former fighter Tiki Ghosn played a significant role in breaking up the scuffle, according to White.

After Chimaev missed weight on Friday, the UFC 279 card was reshuffled, and the Allstars Training Center representative settled his beef with Holland in a first-round submission victory in a 180-pound catchweight, co-main event bout.

The full statement from the NSAC is as follows:

Nevada State Athletic Commission Chairman Stephen J. Cloobeck, and Executive Director Jeff Mullen are aware that the UFC Press Conference on Thursday, September 8, 2022, was cancelled midway through the event. Early reports indicate that an altercation took place prior to and during the press conference, and possibly involved licensed fighters and their associates.

The Chairman has been in communications with UFC executives regarding the events of September 8th. At this time, the UFC is working with the Nevada Athletic Commission on a full investigation into this incident. If the Nevada Athletic Commission determines that licensees acted improperly, we will initiate appropriate disciplinary action against all involved.

Although “trash talking” between competitive athletes is common, any escalation into physical altercations may discredit the sport of unarmed combat and is wholly unacceptable. Further, such behavior may expose participants to both civil and criminal liability. The Nevada Athletic Commission will act strongly and decisively to safeguard and elevate unarmed combat in Nevada.

The Nevada Athletic Commission will strictly discipline all licensees for all incidents of physical violence between athletes outside the ring or cage, up to and including purse forfeiture, revocation or suspension of any current license, denial of applications for new applicants, or denying future license renewals.

We expect professional fighters in Nevada to comport themselves as professionals.