Leslie Smith ear - The 32-year-old female mixed martial artists was furious when UFC referee Herb Dean put a stop to her contest with Jessica Eye this past Saturday at UFC 180.
In the first round of the match, both fighters were swinging wildly when Jessica Eye landed a punch on Leslie Smith's ear. This immediately caused her ear to begin spilling blood.
Reports indicate that Leslie Smith's ear had been suffering from a condition known as cauliflower ear. According to medical experts, in a cauliflower ear, such as Leslie Smith's ear, retention of blood or other fluid causes the ear to be deformed and look like a cauliflower. This condition, which is usually caused by the trauma from a heavy impact, is common among professional athletes.
Despite the fact that Leslie Smith's ear had burst open and was gushing blood, she attempted to convince the referee and ring-side doctor that she could continue fighting. But to no avail.
Leslie Smith has since come out to apologize for her reaction and express agreement with the call of the referee and the doctor.
"I was pretty mad in the cage," she said. "I saw some pictures afterward and I appreciate the doctors looking out for me. I guess. I should've adjusted to protect my ear before the doctors had to stop it... I'll do better next time."
The highly rated fighter has also posted a graphic image of her ear after the fight.
Leslie Smith's ear falling off has been widely discussed by many commentators and fans. Some critics had accused the referee of sexism for calling off the fight. However, in light of the post-fight images of Leslie Smith's ear, many people have vindicated the referee for his call.
Leslie Smith's ear incident brings back memories of another fighter in the 90s who also lost his ear. WWE's Mick Foley, who lost a considerable chunk of his ear, has reached out to Leslie Smith via Twitter. "It gets better!" he wrote. "DM me if you need any support or advice."
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