The UFC Paris event was supposed to be a night of action-packed, adrenaline-filled fights, but what no one expected was that one of the stars of the night, Argentine fighter Ailín Pérez , would be officially suspended after an unusual gesture in the octagon. Pérez, nicknamed “Fiona,” has been the center of attention after performing a “twerking” in her opponent’s face after winning her fight, a move that left the public and the judges stunned.
This controversial gesture has caused a wave of reactions on social media, dividing opinions between those who see it as an unnecessary provocation and those who consider it a simple effusive celebration. What is clear is that the Athletic Commission has not taken it lightly. Just a few hours after the event, it was announced that Ailín Pérez had been officially suspended, which has generated even more controversy around the behavior of fighters inside the octagon.
The incident occurred after a crushing dominance by Perez in her fight. After securing victory, instead of celebrating in the traditional way, Ailín surprised everyone when, in a gesture full of confidence, she briefly but strikingly performed a twerking in front of her defeated opponent. While the fans in the Paris arena reacted with a mix of laughter and amazement, the UFC’s decision was swift and forceful: a temporary suspension while the incident is investigated.
The UFC , known for having strict rules regarding fighter behavior, deemed Perez’s act not only violated the rules of respect toward one’s opponent, but was also inappropriate in the context of a high-level combat sports event.
Social media erupted with opinions. Some fighters and fans defended Ailín Pérez, arguing that MMA is also a spectacle and that her action was a creative way to celebrate. “MMA is as much entertainment as it is sport,” wrote one follower. However, others were more critical, calling the gesture unprofessional. “There is a line that should not be crossed, and Pérez crossed it,” opined a prominent UFC analyst.
With the temporary suspension imposed, Ailín Pérez ‘s immediate future in the UFC is up in the air. While this suspension is unlikely to be permanent, it is clear that Pérez will have to reconsider her approach to celebrating future victories. The UFC and the sanctioning bodies seek to maintain a level of professionalism inside the Octagon, and while gestures of confidence and celebrations are common, this incident has shown that there is a limit.
Will Ailín return with the same energy and boldness or will she change her approach? In the meantime, UFC fans are keeping an eye on the commission’s next decisions and what Ailín has to say about the situation.
