Henry Cejudo Calls for Stricter Eye Poke Rules in UFC

Why this matters: Eye pokes can significantly impact a fighter's career and long-term health. Stricter rules and enforcement could protect fighters and ensure fairer competition.

Henry Cejudo has voiced strong concerns about the prevalence and handling of eye pokes in the UFC. His call for change comes after experiencing an eye poke himself in a previous fight, which influenced the outcome. Cejudo points to the fight between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane, where an eye poke prematurely ended the bout and left Aspinall with lasting injuries, as another example of the issue. He is urging Dana White, the Nevada State Athletic Commission, and referees to take decisive action to prevent career-threatening injuries.

Cejudo is scheduled to face Payton Talbott at UFC 323. Talbott has revealed that Cejudo gave him career-changing advice prior to the fight.

The debate around eye pokes is not new in MMA, with many fighters and analysts calling for changes to the rules and enforcement. The current rules often result in warnings rather than point deductions, even when the foul significantly impacts the fight. This has led to calls for stricter penalties, including immediate point deductions or even disqualifications for egregious or repeated offenses. Implementing more stringent rules could deter fighters from using open-hand techniques that increase the risk of eye pokes.

Because he experienced an eye poke in a previous fight and wants to prevent serious injuries to other fighters.

Tom Aspinall suffered an eye poke in his fight against Ciryl Gane, leading to a premature stoppage and lasting injuries.

He wants stricter penalties, including point deductions or disqualifications, for eye pokes.

Talbott is favored to win via decision.

Do you think the UFC should implement stricter penalties for eye pokes? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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