

In the MMA world, a controversial decision can have far-reaching consequences beyond just the outcome of a single fight. It can significantly impact the entire division and the fighters involved. Fans saw something similar at UFC Vegas 74 when Kai Kara-France and Amir Albazi faced off.
Despite an impressive performance by Kara-France, the judges ruled the fight in favor of Albazi. The split decision was highly controversial and the world started immediately raising questions about it. Evidently, the decision did have an impact on the UFC flyweight division rankings, and it did not sit well with fans and fighters.

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LAS VEGAS, NV – NOVEMBER 21: (R-L) Brandon Royval kicks Brandon Moreno of Mexico in their flyweight bout during the UFC 255 event at UFC APEX on November 21, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
The aftermath of this fight had a ripple effect on the UFC flyweight rankings. Amir Albazi, who was ranked below Brandon Royval prior to the bout, climbed four spots to surpass Royval in the rankings. This sudden shift in position caused frustration for Royval, who reacted to the news on Twitter.
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Brandon Royval and fans react to new UFC flyweight rankings
Expressing his dissatisfaction, Brandon Royval reshared the news of Albazi‘s rise in the rankings, accompanied by the caption “This is garbage.” Royval‘s frustration was evident, as the controversial decision not only impacted his ranking but also potentially his future title opportunities in the division.
This is garbage 🤦🏽♂️ https://t.co/KiULmnYhI6
— Brandon (@brandonroyval) June 6, 2023
Soon, fans rallied behind Royval, sharing their support and disappointment with the situation. Further, many called for a reassessment of the rankings and voiced their concerns about questionable decision-making. Moreover, some even suggested that a new opportunity would arise for Royval to prove himself.
While tensions ran high, others took a more dismissive tone. Some fans called out Royval for his frustration, as they thought Albazi had rightfully earned his place. Here are some of the fan reactions –
Some fans motivated Royval.
Stay ready, Brandon. A new opportunity will reveal itself soon.
— Mike's MMA Picks (@MikesMMAPicks) June 6, 2023
Meanwhile, others hoped against Albazi getting a title shot.
Hopefully they don’t give him the title shot and justify it by him being higher in the rankings
— Sam (@FlawlessMMA7) June 6, 2023
Moreover, other fans wanted to do something about the new rankings.
There's gotta be something we can do as a fanbase and as fighters? Surely something.
— 𝙒𝙊𝙉𝘿𝙀𝙍𝘽𝙍𝙀𝘼𝘿 🇦🇺 (@WonderbreadMMA) June 6, 2023
Others had some bold predictions.
They want him to fight for the belt in abu dabi its so obv😭😭
— Hunchoooo (@762_hunchooo) June 6, 2023
Many comments suggested Royval fight Albazi.
You might as well just fight at this pt
— DEE BLACK (@deeblackmma3) June 6, 2023
Royval vs Albazi next?
Just fight him for the next shot at a title. Its that simple.
— Pauli.♤ (@MMAPauli) June 6, 2023
Some had some harsh words for him.
Dont be salty babe. He beat someone who was ranked above you 😉
— BruceBuffersThroat (@Babiskinado) June 6, 2023
Not all fans were backing the UFC fighter.
Cry harder Lol 😂
— MagrayIdrees (@UrDaddy000001) June 6, 2023
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One even had some unfiltered words for the UFC!
100%, these rankings are trash. Royal deserves next shot.
— JChezbian (@jchezbian) June 6, 2023
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What are your thoughts about UFC’s latest controversy? Do you find the recent development in UFC’s featherweight rankings questionable? Pour your heart out in the comments section below.
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