Matt Mitrione Issues Public Apology for Comments About Fallon Fox
Yesterday news broke that UFC Heavyweight Matt Mitrione’s suspension for violating the promotion’s Code of Conduct had been lifted and that Mitrione will be facing Brendan Schaub at UFC on Fox 8 from Seattle. While it was stated that Mitrione had apologized privately to the UFC brass, any hint of a public apology remained under wraps.
However, the case is different today, as Mitrione appeared to apologize in a very public manner for his brutal comments regarding transgender fighter Fallon Fox. In an interview with MMA Junkie, Mitrione stated the following:
“I want to apologize for my hurtful comments about Fallon Fox and a group within our society which, in truth, I know nothing about.”
“I know now there’s an important line between expressing an opinion on a subject and being hurtful and insensitive. I crossed that line by expressing my views in an ugly, rude and inappropriate manner.”
Quite the contrast in words from Mitrione, who’s apparently realized the wrongs of his previous statements on Fox. He even admitted that the subject was something he knew nothing about, and went on to explain that he conveyed his thoughts in what many viewed as a disgusting fashion.
In any case, the saga of ‘Meatgate’ rages on, as Jon Jones called Mitrione a ‘scumbag’ for his comments yesterday, and now ‘Meathead’ fired back by calling Jones a coward before challenging him to a fight. Has Mitrione truly recognized the error of his ways, or is he saying all the right things to get back into the good graces of the UFC to keep fighting? Mitrione appears to be focusing on the former, stating:
“I know there are people who look up to UFC athletes, and I let them and myself down by setting a very poor example. I also want to apologize to Lorenzo Fertitta, Dana White and everyone associated with the UFC.”
“Anyone can say, ‘I’m sorry’ to get themselves out of trouble. That’s not the kind of person I want to be. I am embarrassed I chose to express myself in such a fashion and am looking forward to living up to this apology through my future actions, words and conduct.”
Perhaps Mitrione will find himself facing Jon Jones in the Octagon someday, but I’d have to say it’s unlikely at this point. Either way, Mitrione has admitted he was wrong publicly, and looks to focus on moving forward in his fighting career.
