Former UFC light heavyweight Sean Salmon has been suspended for one year and fined $2500 by the Ohio Athletic Commission for comments he made following a June 6 loss to Allan Weickert at "Fight Nite in the Flats 5."
Ohio State Athletic Commission Executive Director Bernie Profato informed MMAmania.com of the suspension earlier today.
Salmon, an Ohio native who also operates his S.S. Combat & Fitness Center in the area, blogged that he "gave" Weickert an armbar submission win at the aforementioned bout to avoid further damage.
The troubled fighter, who is perhaps best known for a brutal knockout loss to Rashad Evans at UFC Fight Night 8, also admitted that his purpose for exiting the fight unscathed was to preserve his role as a training partner for Michael Bisping and Cheick Kongo for their upcoming fights.
His admission set off a firestorm on the message boards among mixed martial arts purists and he has since attempted to clarify his incendiary remarks.
Unfortunately his explanation was unsatisfactory for the Commission, who suspended and fined him following an Oct. 14 hearing. The suspension is considered retroactive and will expire on June 6, 2010.
Because stateside suspensions are usually upheld by commissions nationwide, Salmon could have to look for work overseas if he chooses to keep fighting, much like he did at Finland's "Fight Festival 26" on Oct. 17.
Or he could join DMX on the undercard of "Alabama Pride" on Dec. 12, in a state that does not regulate mixed martial arts.
"S" gon' give it to ya' (literally, in Weickert's case).
Get the latest gear
