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Menifield Beats Baraniewski by Split Decision While Fighting Through Gruesome Thumb Injury

The veteran was taken to a hospital for scans after the fight and Dana White shared graphic images that have intensified scrutiny of the close judges' call and the fighter's recovery.

Overview

  • Alonzo Menifield defeated previously unbeaten Iwo Baraniewski by split decision on Sept. 19, handing the Polish knockout prospect his first professional loss.
  • Menifield suffered a severe compound fracture to his thumb in the opening round, displayed the wound after the fight, and said the injury happened in round one.
  • A ringside doctor examined Menifield between rounds two and three and cleared him to continue, allowing him to finish all three rounds before judges returned the 29–28 split decision.
  • Promotion officials confirmed Menifield was transported to a local hospital for X‑rays and precautionary scans, while UFC CEO Dana White posted graphic photos that widened public attention on the injury.
  • The result and visible injury have prompted fan backlash over the judging, a brief statement from Baraniewski that he will rest and return stronger, and an expected medical suspension or surgery that could sideline Menifield pending commission findings.