Gilbert Burns accused Jorge Masvidal of “being slippery” and cheating during their UFC 287 co-main event, while Masvidal denied any wrongdoing and said he has never cheated in his career.
Gilbert Burns defeated Jorge Masvidal in the co-main event of UFC 287. However, Burns accused his opponent of cheating, stating that Masvidal was “slippery” and had used lotion to make it difficult for him to maintain his hold. Burns alleged that Masvidal had used an old trick of putting lotion on his body and allowing it to absorb, which makes it easier for the skin to sweat and, as a result, makes it tough for a fighter to get a grip. Burns made these statements during the post-fight press conference.
Masvidal, on the other hand, disputed the allegations and stated that he had never cheated or used any illegal means to gain an advantage during his career. He emphasized that there were several officials present during the fight, who could have easily detected if he had used any unfair practices. Masvidal argued that it was not his fault if Burns was unable to beat him and suggested that Burns should work on improving his technique instead of making false accusations.
Despite Masvidal’s rebuttal, the issue remained a topic of debate among fans and experts. Some believed that Masvidal might have used unfair means to gain an edge over Burns, while others thought that it was unlikely, given Masvidal’s impeccable track record. The UFC officials did not make any public statements on the matter, and it is not clear if they conducted an investigation into the allegations.
Regardless of the outcome, the episode highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of the sport and ensuring that all fighters abide by the rules. It also emphasized the need for better detection methods and stricter punishments for athletes who engage in illegal practices. The UFC has implemented several measures in recent years to address these concerns, and it is likely that there will be further improvements in the future.