For his actions during his WSOF 22 main event bout former welterweight champion Rousimar Palhares has been suspended two years and fined 40 thousand dollars by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

During his championship bout against Jake Shields, Palhares was able to secure a leg lock that forced Shields to tap. Unfortunately like many times before Palhares did not release the hold until long after his opponent had tapped. Referee Steve Mazzagatti was forced to step in and loosen Palhares’ grip.

It was a scene all too familiar to the MMA world. Palhares has earned a reputation as a dirty fighter for repeatedly holding a submission long after his opponent had tapped. His actions got him released from the UFC and now it has suspended him for two years.

During the hearing Mazzagatti was asked to testify along with veteran referee John McCarthy. Mazzagatti stated during the hearing that he instructed Palhares to not hold onto any submission longer than need be and also stated that Palhares actions were unsportsmanlike. McCarthy echoed Mazzagatti’s statements.

Through an interpreter Palhares claimed that he did not feel Shields tap and thought that he was kneeing him in an effort to escape rather than taping out.

Pal hares’ suspension is retroactive to the date of the fight which occurred on August 1. He is eligible to apply for a license on August 2, 2017.