Franklin’s manager breaks his silence over “illegal blows” from Belfort

Almost a month has passed since Vitor Belfort celebrated his return to action inside the octagon with a flash first round TKO win over former middleweight champion, Rich Franklin. But all has not been well in the Franklin camp since that day, keeping tight lipped about two illegal blows delivered to the back of the Cincinnati natives head, until now.

Speaking via SpringfieldNewsSun.com, Franklins manager, J.T. Stewart said:

“Fans are probably going to think it’s sour grapes. But it’s not. It’s about fighter safety.”

“Would it have changed the outcome? Maybe not. But this is about fighter safety. This isn’t just about Rich Franklin; it’s about Rich and every other fighter knowing the rules will be enforced, whether the fight is about to be stopped or not.”

“There’s been no discussion about it. None. It’s a disappointing. The commissions, referees, fighters – everyone could have improved the safety of the sport by examining and discussing this situation. But because most people thought the outcome was a foregone conclusion, everyone conveniently ignored it.”

Stewart also pointed out that Franklin was still dazed from the shots a full hour later at the post fight press conference, something that had not occurred following his devastating defeats at the hands of Anderson Silva, highlighting the seriousness of the blows delivered.