Jack Hermansson has released a statement on social media following his recent loss at UFC 317.
The veteran middleweight contender made his return to the Octagon this past Saturday after a 16-month layoff.
His comeback unfortunately ended abruptly when Gregory Rodrigues delivered a brutal knockout in the very first round.
The finish sparked controversy, particularly after UFC commentator Daniel Cormier voiced concerns about the referee`s stoppage. Cormier highlighted an apparently unnecessary follow-up hammerfist landed by Rodrigues on Hermansson after he appeared unconscious, which left him motionless on the canvas for several minutes following the featured preliminary bout at UFC 317.
Jack Hermansson Addresses KO Loss at UFC 317
Hermansson`s ninth professional MMA defeat ignited intense debate among fight fans online.
Some directed criticism at Rodrigues for the late strike immediately following his knockout victory.
Meanwhile, others focused on the actions of referee Herb Dean, questioning his timing in stopping the fight and protecting Hermansson once he was clearly out.
However, Hermansson himself did not comment on the widespread uproar surrounding the finish when he finally broke his silence.
Instead, Hermansson took full responsibility for what he termed a `mistake` that ended the fight and offered congratulations to his opponent.
Writing on social media, Hermansson stated: “No need to sugar coat it. I made a mistake. I got knocked out.”
He added: “Congratulations to my opponent @gregoryrodriguesmma, well done. Thank you to my team and supporters. I will be back.”
Gregory Rodrigues Stands By His Actions
Gregory Rodrigues addressed the backlash concerning his `unnecessary` follow-up punch during the post-fight press conference.
The Brazilian KO artist was unapologetic, insisting: “First of all, I don’t care what the people think.”
He explained his perspective: “When you go inside the cage, we sign the contract, we’re able to do everything.” Rodrigues reasoned that if the situation were reversed, his opponent would likely do the same, thus defending his own actions as simply doing his job. He added, “He did his job.”
“But, I hope he’s okay. He’s a warrior like me,” Rodrigues said regarding Hermansson.
Rodrigues maintained his approach: “I’m not gonna stop till the ref [says] stop. I just did my job, and I’m gonna keep doing that.”
“That’s what I do. That’s what he does, and it is what it is. That was my night.”
