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Menifield Wins Split Decision Over Unbeaten Baraniewski While Fighting With a Mangled Thumb

The 38-year-old finished all three rounds despite a confirmed compound fracture and was taken to hospital for X‑rays, leaving his recovery timeline and any commission suspension unclear.

Overview

  • Alonzo Menifield defeated Iwo Baraniewski by split decision in the UFC 331 main card opener, handing the Polish prospect his first professional loss.
  • Menifield suffered a compound fracture to his left thumb in the first round with bone visibly protruding through the skin and continued to fight for the full 15 minutes.
  • A ringside physician examined the injury between rounds and cleared Menifield to continue, and UFC officials transported him to a local hospital for precautionary X‑rays after the event.
  • The decision was narrow and controversial, prompting fan and media debate, and UFC CEO Dana White circulated graphic photos of Menifield’s injury on social media.
  • Menifield’s win extends a late-career resurgence but his next steps depend on medical reports, possible surgery and any athletic commission suspension that have not yet been disclosed.