Controversial MMA technique could be banned following UFC 331

The California State Athletic Commission is considering significant rule changes following UFC 331, held at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on September 19. CSAC executive Andy Foster outlined several proposals during a post-event debrief, sparking debate about fighter safety and competitive fairness.

Obviously oblique kicks—specifically lateral strikes to the knee—emerged as a focal point. During the event, middleweight Edmen Shahbazyan complained to the referee about opponent Brunno Ferreira throwing side-kicks to the knee, seemingly unaware the technique is currently legal. While such kicks are banned in most training gyms and considered poor form, MMA rules permit them, though they can cause serious knee damage depending on angle and intent. Foster now wants to classify them as a foul.

Beyond kicks, Foster discussed reclassifying fouls themselves. Under current unified rules, infractions are judged as intentional or unintentional. Foster proposed new categories—incidental, reckless, and malicious—believing the shift would reduce eye pokes by encouraging fighters to keep their hands closed and more controlled.

A third proposal involves potentially legalizing a peptide that accelerates cut healing without enhancing athletic performance. Foster wants to hold discussions with medical professionals to determine if such a substance meets safety and fairness criteria for professional use. These discussions represent ongoing efforts to balance fighter safety with competitive integrity as the sport continues to evolve.