Rose Namajunas Advocates for Stricter Eye Poke Penalties
Rose Namajunas, a two-time UFC strawweight champion, has urged the UFC to implement stronger penalties for fighters who commit eye pokes during bouts.
Namajunas, 33, recently received medical clearance to resume training three months after undergoing eye surgery to repair damage sustained in her loss to Natalia Silva at UFC 324.
Following the January fight, the American fighter revealed that Brazilian competitor Silva had poked her in the eye multiple times, necessitating the insertion of a silicone tube to address the injury.
On social media this past Monday, Namajunas stated that she was "finally healthy" but emphasized the need for the UFC to enforce financial penalties for eye pokes, regardless of intent.
"I'm a bit out of shape, but I'm cleared to train now," former UFC strawweight champion Namajunas posted.
"I really hope eye pokes will be taken more seriously in the future. I propose instant purse deduction even for an accident.
"An accident that could seriously affect a fighter's health long-term. Anyways, I'm just grateful that it was not more serious."
Currently, referees typically issue two or three warnings to fighters for eye poke fouls. Veteran MMA referee Herb Dean noted in November that existing rules allow officials to enforce points deductions in such cases.
Recent Incidents Highlight Eye Poke Concerns
The issue of eye pokes has gained increased attention over the last six months, notably after the UFC heavyweight championship bout between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane in October was prematurely halted.
During the fight, Gane accidentally poked Aspinall in the eyes late in the first round, resulting in the match being declared a no-contest.
Aspinall was later diagnosed with a rare eye condition and has not returned to competition since undergoing surgery in February.
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