UFC releases statement on cornerman Alex Nicholson’s racist remarks at UFC 202

The UFC has released a statement on Alex Nicholson’s racist remarks while cornering Mike Perry in his octagon debut against Hyun Gyu Lim at UFC 202.

Nicholson, a UFC middleweight and Perry’s teammate, was overheard saying “he can’t even open his (expletive) eyes” over the UFC cornerman microphones just moments before the fight began.

UFC competitor Alex Nicholson made a derogatory comment toward another UFC athlete while cornering his teammate, Mike Perry, at UFC 202. UFC has addressed the matter with Nicholson, as well as Perry, to express the organization’s disappointment with Nicholson’s insensitive remark. As such, the organization informed Nicholson that any future instances of this nature could result in a suspension from competition, or termination of his contract.

UFC requires all athletes to act in an ethical, responsible and respectful manner, as mandated by the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy. UFC holds its athletes to the highest standard and will continue to take appropriate action if and when it is warranted.

Perry went on to beat the Korean welterweight with a spectacular knockout, dropping him twice times with clubbing overhand rights before landing the final shot that ended the fight in the first round. Lim, who had only lost by t/ko once before in his 20-fight long career, came into the bout as a the betting favorite after his original opponent Sultan Aliev pulled out with an injury.

The undefeated Perry will not be punished as a result of his cornerman’s remarks, as he is set to make a quick turnaround at UFC 204, where he will fight Daniel Roberts.