The controversy stems from Askhabov’s bout against Reinaldo Ekson at Airtox Dominance FC 8, which took place on October 17 in Copenhagen, Denmark. During the heat of the competition, the action was temporarily halted when the referee called a timeout to address a suspected eye poke. However, rather than adhering to the standard protocol of retreating to a neutral position to await instructions, Askhabov attempted to launch an attack on Ekson while the referee’s attention was diverted and the fight was officially paused.
The immediate aftermath of the infraction saw the bout stopped entirely. Under the chaotic circumstances of the live event, Askhabov was initially declared the winner by technical knockout, leaving fans and analysts scratching their heads over how a fight could end in a stoppage immediately following an illegal or questionable maneuver and a subsequent referee timeout.
DMMAF disqualifies Khusein Askhabov for actions during a referee timeout against Reinaldo Ekson
Recognizing the severity of the situation and the procedural questions surrounding the initial cage-side decision, the Danish Mixed Martial Arts Federation (DMMAF) stepped in to conduct a comprehensive review of the incident. After examining the footage and evaluating the official reports from the officiating staff, the governing body determined that the original outcome could not be allowed to stand.
In an official statement released to the public and the combat sports community, the DMMAF detailed the rationale behind its definitive ruling. “Having reviewed the incident, DMMAF has determined that Askhabov’s actions during the timeout constituted a serious violation of the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts and warranted disqualification, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the initial stoppage,” the federation wrote.
With the ruling officially finalized, the administrative books were rewritten. Reinaldo Ekson was formally declared the winner of the bout by disqualification. Furthermore, the governing body elected to lay down a heavy hand regarding future participation, handing down a 12-month disciplinary suspension to both Askhabov and members of his corner team from all DMMAF-sanctioned events and activities.
Expanding on the scope of the penalty, the federation outlined the precise limitations placed upon the banned individuals. “The DMMAF Board has therefore decided to: Overturn the original result and declare Reinaldo Ekson Oliveira the winner by disqualification (DQ). Impose a 12-month disciplinary suspension on Khusein Askhabov and his corner team from all DMMAF-sanctioned events and activities, including participation as a fighter, coach, cornerman, or in any other capacity, in accordance with the federation’s Code of Conduct,” the DMMAF Board stated. This sweeping prohibition ensures that neither the fighter nor his coaches can operate within any sanctioned capacity under the organization’s jurisdiction for a full year.
This latest development adds another turbulent chapter to Askhabov’s professional career, which has experienced several dramatic turns both inside and outside the cage over recent years. Prior to his venture into the European regional circuit, Askhabov competed under the banner of the premier global mixed martial arts promotion, the Ultimate Fighting Championship.
Askhabov’s lone appearance inside the Octagon came in 2023, when he squared off against Jamall Emmers. That high-profile bout resulted in a unanimous decision loss for Askhabov, marking the first defeat of his previously spotless professional career and halting the momentum he had built up on the regional scene prior to signing with the major organization.
Troubles continued to mount away from the cage later that same year. Following his debut loss in the UFC, Askhabov was scheduled to return to the Octagon for a high-stakes matchup against veteran fighter Daniel Pineda. However, that booking was abruptly scrapped by the promotion after Askhabov found himself detained by law enforcement during a trip to Thailand.
According to investigative reports published by the Phuket News at the time, Askhabov and his twin brother were arrested and subsequently questioned by local authorities over grave allegations involving kidnapping, torture, and extortion. The international news generated significant concern within the combat sports community, prompting the UFC to distance itself from the fighter by canceling his upcoming bouts while legal proceedings and investigations unfolded overseas.
Subsequent reports indicated that the criminal charges initially brought against Askhabov and his relative were eventually dropped, allowing him to eventually resume his fighting career on the regional circuit. However, this latest ruling by the Danish Mixed Martial Arts Federation demonstrates that regulatory bodies continue to scrutinize the conduct of athletes closely, both in terms of their adherence to the Unified Rules inside the cage and the broader standards of sportsmanship required to maintain a professional license in the sport.
