Coach reveals near-attack with Quemuel Ottoni after withdrawal from 'Contender Series'

Quemuel Ottoni gave up competing in the Contender Series. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

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The controversy surrounding Quemuel Ottoni's withdrawal from the 'Contender Series' has taken on new dimensions. The fighter's coach, Bruno Murata, revealed that the former executioner's decision to Alex Poatán was not sudden and the psychological pressure weighed on the Brazilian in the days leading up to last Tuesday's (10) dispute. He would face Kody Steele at the show in search of a contract with Dana White's organization.

Murata said he did everything he could to get his athlete into the octagon, but his insistence was in vain. The coach regretted the situation, but understood the importance of Ottoni's mental health.

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“He actually put on and took off the gloves twice. The last time, we almost came to blows. Of course, I'm also frustrated. It was months of hard work, a lot of dedication and financial expenses. But I understand that Quemuel's mental health must come first. As important as this fight was, this is just a sport. His life and well-being are the most important things,” concluded Murata, who revealed on his social media.

Quemuel Ottoni was Alex Poatan's executioner

The UFC broadcast team initially reported that Quemuel had withdrawn for personal reasons, but Dana White detailed that matchmaker Sean Shelby tried to convince the fighter to compete.

The case of Quemuel Ottoni raises an important debate about the mental health of athletes and the pressure exerted on them to achieve results. The Brazilian, who won Alex Poatán in the debut of the current light heavyweight champion (up to 93kg), he has a record of 12 positive results and three negative ones in his career.