James McSweeney’s devastating loss to Travis Browne seemed pretty straight forward last Saturday night at “The Ultimate Fighter 11 Finale”. However, the bout was not without controversy, as Browne’s ground and pound, which ultimately led to the fight being stopped, included a few illegal shots, according to “The Ultimate Fighter” alum’s manager.
According to MMAjunkie.com, who spoke with McSweeney’s manager, Lex McMahon, the heavyweight was struck with illegal shots to the back of the head, which resulted in a large laceration that anyone watching the Spike TV broadcast could see. McMahon plans to file an appeal to the Nevada State Athletic Commission in regards to getting the technical knockout loss overturned to a no contest.
McMahon also revealed that McSweeney’s corner met with a cageside doctor post-fight, and the doctor agreed that the cut on the defeated heavyweight’s head was a result of an illegal strike. However, McMahon also told MMAjunkie.com that he had little faith that the result would indeed be overturned.
NSAC Executive Director Keith Kizer also commented on the situation to MMAjunkie.com, stating that he did hear McSweeney’s corner pointing out the illegal shots during the match. However, Kizer himself stated that he did not notice any illegal shots while watching the fight.