Iranian MMA fighter Ali Heibati has been slapped with a lifetime ban by the Hardcore Fighting Championship (HFC) following his outrageous behavior during Friday night’s event.
Heibati’s debut was filled with contentious moments, beginning with an inexplicable kick directed at ring girl Maria. Despite Maria’s attempt to confront him, Heibati was reprimanded by the referee and his short-lived debut fight commenced, lasting a mere 30 seconds.
As Heibati suffered a knockout loss, his bizarre actions continued. Agitated by his defeat, he attacked his opponent, Arkadiy Osipyan, who had been celebrating his victory. Heibati struck Osipyan in the back of the head, but astonishingly remained in the cage as the result was announced.
Heibati’s rampage did not end there, as he aimed a kick at a ring announcer before a multi-person brawl erupted, involving several HFC fighters. HFC has vowed to identify and punish the other individuals involved in the melee.
In a post-fight video, Heibati apologized for his actions, but his apology was met with skepticism by HFC, who refused to retract the lifetime ban. HFC also announced that Heibati would be fined the cost of his appearance, which would be donated to the ring girl he had attempted to attack.
Heibati’s MMA career, which spanned a single fight lasting just 30 seconds, has come to an abrupt and controversial end. The lifetime ban marks a significant consequence for his actions, casting a shadow over his future in the sport.
