Sometimes, an MMA fight ends in the most unpredictable way imaginable. Whether it is a simple ref stoppage or a lucky punch, anything is possible. In Cat Zingano’s case, she was standing in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Facing Megan Anderson on the UFC 232 prelims, Zingano (10-4) was in trouble early. A flurry of punches by Anderson (9-3) caught Zingano, and then the former hit the latter with a kick to the face. In a freak situation, the toenail of Anderson slashed across Zingano’s eye, making the pain uncomfortable enough to end the fight after a minute into the first round.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1ySrErrzdQ
Zingano, now 1-4 in her last few fights, was making her debut as a featherweight. She ended up suffering an eyelid laceration and was immediately tended to. It was a strange sight to see by everyone involved.
While technically not illegal, the end result of the fight was questioned by members of the media and fighters alike. Zingano herself went to Twitter, asking if the “toe poke” should be treated as an illegal finger poke.
I was worried my eye was ruptured. They say I’ll be ok tonight. Thanks to everyone for your concern. What are your thoughts on a finger digit poke vs a toe digit poke being ruled a tko? @ufc pic.twitter.com/qp6Ep4Q3MA
— Alpha Cat Zingano (@CatZingano) December 30, 2018
The athletic commision has not responded to her questioning. It is all but certain the decision will not be reversed.
What is next for Zingano? A proper rematch between her and Anderson is always on the table, as the fight wasn’t exactly how both wanted it to go down.
As for Anderson, after winning five of her last six, she can very well be in contention for the Featherweight Title, now held by Amanda Nunes. She can also face former champion Cris Cyborg to determine the true contender for the relatively new belt. The two were meant to throw down at UFC 214 before Anderson backed out.
Does “Alpha” Cat Zingano have a point? Should the decision be reversed, or is a plain rematch the best way to handle this?
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