California considers banning oblique kicks after UFC 331
Sherdog • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 21, 2026, 3:27 AM
Last updated Sep 21, 2026
Following UFC 331 on September 19, discussions are underway about potential rule changes in mixed martial arts. California State Athletic Commission executive director Andy Foster highlighted the oblique kick as a controversial technique that may be banned. In the main event, Edmen Shahbazyan won a unanimous decision against Brunno Ferreira. Foster raised issues regarding knee kicks and proposed categorizing fouls, suggesting classifications such as incidental, reckless, and malicious to improve fighter safety. Further discussions will involve medical professionals about the use of a healing peptide.
- •UFC 331 took place at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
- •Edmen Shahbazyan defeated Brunno Ferreira by unanimous decision.
- •Foster aims to address oblique kicks and knee kick legality.
- •Potential new classifications for fouls could enhance safety protocols.
- 3:27 AMSherdog — Controversial MMA technique could be banned following UFC 331
"California State Athletic Commission’s executive director Andy Foster recently discussed some potential rule changes in mixed martial arts.
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