Rousimar Palhares still awaiting opponent, but WSOF boss promises short leash

Rousimar Palhares still hasn’t been booked for his World Series of Fighting debut, but the company president promised that the controversial UFC vet will be on a short leash.

As MMAjunkie first reported, the Las Vegas-based promotion took a gamble and signed the UFC castoff this past month.

Palhares (15-5), who fought 12 times for the UFC, was released from the promotion following an October submission win over Mike Pierce. UFC President Dana White criticized Palhares for not letting go of a heel hook – a submission move that can cause serious damage to an opponent’s knee – immediately after his opponent both physically and verbally submitted.

While initially saying WSOF wasn’t interested in the Brazilian, Sefo ultimately decided to give Palhares a chance, and the organization signed him to an exclusive multi-fight deal.

“Rousimar is one of the most talented athletes in mixed martial arts, and we’re excited to have him as a part of our organization,” WSOF President Ray Sefo said at the time.

However, today during a media call in support of this weekend’s WSOF 7 event, Sefo said he’s going to give the fighter a short leash. Although an opponent and debut date haven’t been set for the former top 10 middleweight, Palhares is being given little leeway.

“I’m not going to tolerate any of that nonsense that happened before,” Sefo said. “If it happens again, he’s gone.”

In 2010 the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board suspended Palhares for a similar offense.

Although not official, Palhares is expected to make his WSOF debut in March 2014.

For more on WSOF’s upcoming schedule, stay tuned to the MMA Rumors section of the site.