SEVERAL UFC fighters have called for oblique kicks to be banned after Modestas Bukauskas' horrific knee injury in his light-heavyweight clash with Khalil Rountree Jr.
The Baltic Gladiator's knee was torn apart last night by a horrific stomp from Rountree Jr in the second round of their UFC Vegas 36 clash.
Referee Herb Dean immediately waved off the contest after seeing Bukauskas collapse to the ground in agony.
The perfectly-placed oblique kick used by Rountree is a divisive strike, with many believing fighters should refrain from using it due to the damage it can cause.
And a number of athletes on the UFC roster called for it to be outlawed after seeing the devastating effect it had on Bukauskas.
Welterweight contender Max Griffin said: "It's technically 'legal', but I don't think it's right. This should only be used in street fight situations."
Lightweight mainstay Michael Johnson said: "We just talked about this @fightclub. Should be banned for sure.
"Cheap bulls**t. Then to brag about it is a bit trash."
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Belal Muhammad said: "Ahh that technique should be banned. That's career-changing."
Light-heavyweight prospect Jamahal Hill said: "That's exactly why that shit shouldn't be allowed!!! H*e s**t!!!
Lightweight Vinc Pichel: said: "I don’t care if I’m unpopular for this but that bulls**t kick should be banned."
Rountree reflected on the devastating strike in his post-fight interview, saying: “I didn’t work it in training camp with the intent that I had and threw it with today, because I don’t want to hurt my training partners.
"I knew when he threw a jab he was very heavy on the front foot. That’s when I threw it and that’s when it landed.”
The extent of the damage to Bukuauskas knee is currently unknown, although commentator Michael Bisping revealed the cageside physician believed the Lithuanian-born Brit's ACL, MCL, & PCL ligaments had all been torn.
Bukauskas, 27, took to social media early on Sunday morning but offered no update on his injury.
He wrote on his Instagram story: "Thank you all for the messages of love and support, I appreciate you all."
Rountree reflected further on his emphatic victory on social media, writing: "Overwhelmed with lots of different emotions.
"But I’m grateful for your support.
"Fighting has its ups and downs and although it’s entertaining to the masses is f*****g dangerous and anything can happen.
"I spoke with my opponent after the match and wished him a speedy recovery because he will come back stronger and better as all great fighters do.
"Again thank you all."
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