WSOF suspends Vagab Vagabov for five months following post-fight infraction

Vagab Vagabov

While he picked up a win at this past weekend’s WSOF 23 event, undefeated middleweight prospect Vagab Vagabov will be sidelined for five months for losing his cool after his victory over Brian Grinnell.

WSOF Executive Vice President and matchmaker Ali Abdelaziz today told MMAjunkie that the promotion issued the sanctions because Vagabov clearly struck Grinnell multiple times after referee Al Guinee waved off the pair’s preliminary contest in the second round.

“I spoke with Vagab and his team, and they were very apologetic for his actions,” Abdelaziz said. “Vagab got caught up in the moment and expressed remorse for his mistake, but as a company, we simply cannot let moments like this go without addressing them directly.

“We hope this penalty sends a strong message to everyone on our roster that such infractions simply will not be tolerated.”

Vagabov (16-0) and Grinnell (8-7) met on the preliminary card of Friday’s WSOF 23 event in Phoenix. The undefeated Vagabov took control of the bout in the second round, using superior striking to wear down his foe and unleashing a barrage of blows as he looked to end the fight.

As Grinnell stepped in to end the bout, Vagabov inexplicably fired in a front kick and a hammer fist around the referee that earned the scorn of both the official and his opponent.

Abdelaziz said Vagabov did not attempt to make an excuse for the added strikes but simply asked for forgiveness for his actions.

Vagabov’s suspension stems from the date of the fight, so he’ll be eligible to compete again for the promotion after Feb. 18.

Vagabov was making his WSOF debut in the bout and remains undefeated through the first 16 fights of his career, including eight knockouts and four submissions.

For additional coverage of WSOF 23, check out the MMA Events section of the site.