Neil Magny delivered another memorable performance at UFC Perth, securing a comeback victory that has stirred significant debate.
Known for his resilience and role as a consistent force in the welterweight division, Magny further cemented his legacy by achieving the second-highest number of wins in UFC history following this recent triumph.
In his 36th Octagon appearance, Magny faced fellow veteran Jake Matthews. The bout concluded with Magny securing a submission victory in the final round, marking the sole defeat for an Australian fighter at the Perth event.
However, the victory was marred by controversy stemming from an incident in the first round. The referee briefly halted the fight just before the buzzer, believing Magny had gone unconscious while ensnared in a tight guillotine choke from Matthews.
The official stepped in after observing Magny`s arm appear to go limp. Yet, once the choke was released, Magny quickly affirmed his consciousness, prompting the referee to allow the bout to proceed.
While Matthews and his camp consider their next steps, Magny has shed light on his state of mind during that critical first-round sequence.
Neil Magny: “I was fighting for air” before referee`s intervention
Magny reflected on the moment, acknowledging he was close to losing consciousness but ultimately remained aware.
He disclosed that even while trapped in the choke, he was actively counting down the remaining seconds of the round, anticipating the bell.
“At the end of the round, I felt the round was already up,” Magny stated during the post-fight interview. He described Matthews` choke as “pretty tight.”
“My primary focus was to hold on, fighting for air and maintaining blood circulation,” he explained. “I extended my arm slightly, and as soon as I heard the ten-second warning, I began my mental countdown: `Ten, nine, eight,` all the way to one.”
“Just as I anticipated the bell, the referee stepped in.”
“The choke was undeniably deep, but my focus was solely on fighting for air and preventing myself from going unconscious,” Magny added.
Jake Matthews plans to appeal controversial UFC Perth loss
For a brief period following the first round, Matthews was under the impression he had secured a victory.
According to legendary referee John McCarthy, the initial stoppage in the first round might have caused an `adrenaline dump` for Matthews, potentially impacting his subsequent performance.
Regardless, Matthews intends to appeal the outcome, citing the referee`s initial stoppage just before the round`s conclusion as a key factor.
“The fight stoppage is currently under review by the state combat commission,” Matthews announced. He added, “It`s challenging to regain focus after a referee`s intervention, but we will defer to their judgment and await the decision.”
Matthews concluded, “Ultimately, rules are rules.” His management confirmed the intention to appeal the result.
