Stop Celebrating on the UFC Cage
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Posted by
simone
on Aug 27, 2026
- 18 views
Paddy Pimblett, Max Holloway and Gable Steveson were each fined $2,500 by the Nevada State Athletic Commission for climbing on the cage during their post-fight celebrations. Michael Bisping called withholding fighter pay a crime.
Chael Sonnen sees it differently.
Chael explains why the commission wasn't trying to punish the fighters or make an example out of them financially.
The $2,500 fines were a warning meant to finally get everyone's attention after fighters had repeatedly been told to stay off the cage.
And there is a legitimate reason for the rule.
Chael recalls Dan Henderson tearing his ACL during a celebration and another fighter landing on a cameraman and breaking his leg after a backflip. He also explains the complicated liability and insurance questions that arise when someone gets hurt after a fight has officially ended.
Then there's Justin Gaethje.
Fans may love Gaethje's signature backflip, but Chael admits it makes him nervous every single time.
This isn't abo