In the electrifying world of UFC, where warriors enter the Octagon to engage in no-holds-barred combat, a longstanding practice has come under scrutiny, sparking debates and raising eyebrows. It is the use of Vaseline on fighters’ faces, and in this article, we delve into the controversy surrounding its application before a battle.
The Pre-Fight Ritual
Before fighters even think about trading blows inside the Octagon, they undergo a comprehensive inspection process, orchestrated by a commission official and their indispensable cutman.
The commission official plays a vital role in ensuring fighters are properly equipped for the upcoming battle. They verify the presence of a protective cup, a mouthguard, and gloves to guarantee that each fighter adheres to the necessary safety regulations.
- Advertisement -
But what has been making waves in the UFC community is the cut man’s practice of liberally applying Vaseline to the fighter’s face, raising questions and igniting debates.
The Polarizing Role of Vaseline
While Vaseline is commonly regarded as a protective measure, its use before fights has become a source of controversy. Let’s delve into the various aspects of this contentious issue:
- Preventing Facial Wounds or Unfair Advantage?
Proponents argue that Vaseline is an essential tool to prevent facial wounds and ensure fighter safety. However, critics contend that excessive Vaseline can offer an unfair advantage. Some believe that too much Vaseline makes it easier for fighters to slip out of submissions, raising questions about the fairness of the fight.
- Swelling: A Blessing or a Curse?
Vaseline is known to reduce swelling, a critical benefit for fighters who need clear vision and agility. However, the controversy arises when one questions whether minimizing swelling is a strategic advantage or merely a way to mask the severity of damage sustained during a fight.
- Advertisement -
- A Protective Barrier or a Slippery Slope?
While Vaseline creates a protective barrier for the skin, some argue it can make fighters less cautious, knowing they have a buffer against cuts and abrasions. This leads to concerns about fighter recklessness, potentially endangering both competitors.
- Soft and Resilient Skin or Enhanced Durability?
Some celebrate Vaseline’s ability to maintain the skin’s softness and flexibility, while others question whether it artificially enhances a fighter’s durability, potentially distorting the true outcomes of matches.
- Reducing Friction or Skewing Fairness?
Vaseline’s role in reducing friction is contentious. While it can make fights smoother and less painful for fighters, it also sparks debates about whether it alters the dynamics of the match, potentially benefiting one fighter over the other.
- Advertisement -
- Aiding Healing or Hiding Injuries?
Vaseline can also act as a barrier to further damage when applied to existing wounds. However, when fighters use it to conceal the severity of injuries, it potentially endangers their well-being by discouraging them from seeking necessary medical attention.
- A Lifeline or a Game Changer?
The practice of applying Vaseline between rounds is indeed a lifeline for fighters with severe cuts, allowing them to continue the battle. But this very act has also raised debates on whether it can alter the course of a fight and the fairness of the outcome.
The Referee’s Balancing Act
As the controversy over Vaseline rages on, the referee holds the key to maintaining fairness and safety. Their discretion plays a pivotal role in deciding if a fighter has crossed the line regarding Vaseline application. This discretionary power adds an extra layer of complexity to the controversy, with every call scrutinized by fans and fighters alike.
In the UFC, Vaseline isn’t just a cosmetic choice; it’s a topic of heated debate. Its application has become an integral part of the pre-fight formal, raising questions about fairness, safety, and the very essence of the sport. While many fans and fighters advocate for its continued use, the controversy surrounding Vaseline will likely continue to be a hot topic in the world of UFC.
