Matt Brown issues apology for controversial comments aimed at women's MMA
Welterweight contender Matt Brown is the latest fighter to feel the sting of the UFC code of conduct after his recent comments about women's mixed martial arts on his personal podcast.
Brown started his own show alongside local Columbus, OH radio host Jeremy Loper and professional fighter Travis Clark named 'Legit Man Sh*t' where the topic of UFC 168 came up on the debut episode.
Among the comments, Brown stated, "I just think this, if I'm (going) to pay $60 for a pay-per-view to watch women fight they should at least be topless."
Brown's statements may have very well been in jest at the time, but either way once the podcast hit the Internet, several sites picked up on his statement. It didn't take long for the backlash to happen and Brown to regret saying what he said.
On Thursday, Brown issued a formal apology to the UFC for the comments he made on the podcast (which was pulled from Soundcloud as well).
"Matt Brown has apologized for the comments made on his podcast, and we have addressed the matter with him. His comments don't reflect the views of the UFC. There's no place for discrimination within our organization at any level. The UFC is built on principles of respect, and any statements to the contrary are not acceptable."
Brown later offered his own apology to FOX Sports while taking responsibility for his actions and mistakes.
"I have spoken with the UFC about the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy and what is required and expected of me as a professional athlete under the terms of my promotion agreement," Brown said. "The UFC has a policy of inclusion and respect for all people and I understand the importance of being more aware of my actions and words."
Brown is still on the sidelines right now dealing with two herniated discs that forced him out of his scheduled bout against Carlos Condit at FOX UFC Saturday in Sacramento this past December.
While he's recovering and putting the fallout from this situation behind him, Brown will leave on Monday for a two-week tour overseas where he will visit and spend time with United States military currently stationed in Afghanistan.
