What was supposed to be a night of glory for Cédric Doumbé, one of the biggest names in world kickboxing, turned into frustration and revolt. The French fighter was defeated by Baysangur Chamsoudinov in the main fight of PFL Europe, held this Thursday (7) in Paris, due to a controversial decision by referee Marc Goddard.
The fight was even in the third round, when Doumbé felt a splinter enter his toe. The athlete tried to communicate the problem to the referee, but was not responded to. The second time he complained, Goddard surprised everyone and interrupted the fight, declaring Chamsoudinov the winner by technical knockout.
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The decision sparked protests from Doumbé, who claimed that he was not giving up the fight, merely asking for a break to remove the barb. The public, which filled the Accor Arena with more than 17 thousand people, also booed the referee and supported the local idol. Cédric suffered his first defeat in MMA professional, after five consecutive victories.
The result also frustrated Doumbé's expectations, who had provoked his opponent when promoting the event, even reserving a hospital bed for him. Chamsoudinov, in turn, maintained his unbeaten record in MMA, with eight wins in eight fights.
PFL Europa is an MMA organization that brings together the best fighters on the European continent. This Thursday's event was the first of the 2024 regular season.
VIDEO: Splinter in finger makes referee end fight and take victory from French star in PFL Europe
MARC GODDARD STEPS IN! Baki takes home the W!#PFLParis pic.twitter.com/gGauAVp80n
— PFL (@PFLMMA) March 7, 2024
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