Controversial mixed martial arts personality Dillon Danis has been permanently banned from all UFC events after instigating a massive brawl at Madison Square Garden during UFC 322. The lifetime prohibition was announced by UFC President Dana White following the chaotic scene that required extensive security intervention.
The Incident That Sparked the Lifetime Ban
The altercation erupted between the preliminary and main cards at the iconic New York City arena. Danis, accompanied by five associates, attempted to access a section reserved for UFC fighters. Witnesses reported verbal exchanges between Danis and members of Islam Makhachev's team before the situation escalated into physical violence.
Security personnel struggled to contain the melee, with video footage showing Magomed 'Chanco' Zaynukov, a member of Makhachev's camp, landing multiple blows on Danis while security attempted to restrain him. The incident forced a significant delay in the evening's programming as Madison Square Garden staff worked to restore order.
Dana White Takes Responsibility and Action
During his post-fight press conference, White expressed both frustration and self-blame regarding the incident. The UFC president revealed he had been informed of Danis's presence earlier in the evening and made the decision to allow him to remain since he possessed a valid ticket.
"I blame myself for that brawl, actually," White told reporters. "They came back and told me right before I walked out for the main card that Dillon Danis was here and he was moving around, sitting in fighters' seats. They said, 'Do you want us to throw him out of here?' and I said, 'He has a ticket?' and they said, 'Yeah.'"
White acknowledged he was aware of potential tension, having been told that former UFC fighter Jorge Masvidal had threatened Danis, but didn't anticipate conflict with Makhachev's team.
History of Confrontation and Consequences
This isn't Danis's first involvement in UFC-related violence. The American fighter was previously involved in the notorious post-fight brawl following Khabib Nurmagomedov's victory over Conor McGregor in 2018. Nurmagomedov, a training partner of Makhachev, attacked Danis after submitting McGregor, sparking chaos both inside and outside the octagon.
Following the latest incident, White confirmed the UFC had the option to press criminal charges but declined, stating "This is the fight business, man. You know how I feel about this. I could have prevented this tonight."
Zaynukov later explained his actions in a social media video, stating Danis had been "talking trash" and deserved even more severe consequences. "You have to be responsible for that. That's our way of life. If you said something, you've got to be responsible for your words," he declared.
Despite the lifetime attendance ban, Danis continues his fighting career outside the UFC organization. The 31-year-old holds a perfect 3-0 professional MMA record and is scheduled to compete for the Misfits promotion in December against Anthony Taylor.
