Modestas Bukauskas acknowledges that fight commentators have a role, and he won`t always see eye-to-eye with them. However, after reviewing his UFC 315 bout, he questions how a close split decision could be labeled “trash” by Daniel Cormier.
The seasoned light heavyweight secured a split decision victory against Ion Cutelaba in Montreal. Bukauskas maintained confidence in his win`s validity. While reviewing the fight, he identified areas for future improvement, but found no justification for claims of a “robbery” in what he saw as a competitive, back-and-forth contest over three rounds.
Cormier`s reaction on the broadcast after the scores were announced was blunt: “That’s trash. That’s actually a very bad decision. A 30-27 for Bukauskas?”
Bukauskas doesn`t fault Cormier for expressing his view. He understands, however, the significant influence commentators can have on fan perception, suggesting this impacted the public reaction to his fight.
“I think that really shaped many opinions, especially online,” Bukauskas stated. “People seemed to just echo the commentary rather than forming their own views. I fully respect those fighters; they`re Hall of Famers and legends of the sport. Their achievements are undeniable. But I genuinely didn`t grasp the basis for their strong stance or why their perspective leaned so heavily one way. It simply didn`t make sense to me.”
“Everyone is entitled to their opinion, of course,” he continued. “Many people likely lost bets or parlays on the fight, which naturally caused dissatisfaction, especially given it was a close contest. In this sport, you can`t satisfy everyone. My focus is simply on securing the win. Ultimately, the record shows a victory, and that`s what I need to keep achieving.”
To gain a clearer understanding of the fight`s dynamics, Bukauskas revealed he rewatched it multiple times, both with and without the official UFC commentary.
While admitting there were challenging moments where the decision *could* have gone to Cutelaba, Bukauskas strongly disagrees with the notion that his opponent was robbed by the judges.
“My coaches and I watched it both ways – with and without the commentary,” Bukauskas explained. “One coach, viewing it neutrally without the audio, felt it was extremely close but leaned slightly in my favor. I understand the commentators are doing their job, analyzing and calling the action. My responsibility is to deliver a performance so dominant that their perspective is clearly aligned with my success, and that`s perfectly acceptable.”
“Based on their commentary, it sounded like they all expected a 30-27 scorecard for Cutelaba, which, again, makes no sense to me,” he added. “I`d be curious to understand Daniel Cormier`s reasoning for that specific prediction. Ultimately, I just need to come back with an even more conclusive performance in my next fight to eliminate any doubt. It`s all good.”
Post-fight feedback has been varied, but Bukauskas noted that even negative comments generate attention, a desirable outcome for any fighter.
He also doesn`t shy away from creating discussion, although his stance on the fight`s outcome remains consistent from the moment he exited the octagon through his subsequent rewatches.
“I posted something on Instagram like `biggest robbery?` but framed it from a neutral angle, acknowledging it wasn`t my best but stating I believed I landed the more effective strikes,” Bukauskas shared. “That generated a huge response, which is exactly what you want!”
Regardless of the controversial commentary, Bukauskas secured the win, marking his third consecutive victory. He is now targeting a spot in the top 15 and has a specific opponent in mind.
“Zhang Mingyang recently entered the top 15,” Bukauskas stated. “He had an incredible performance in his last fight. He always comes to fight; he`s a banger and seems like a good guy. So, why not have a fight between us?”
“This fight would be my opportunity to break into the top 15 and his chance to solidify his position. With other potential opponents already booked, considering we both just won, it makes sense. That`s my thinking.”
