UFC Releases Statement Addressing Alex Nicholson’s ‘Insensitive Remark’ Toward Hyun Gyu Lim

The Ultimate Fighting Championship on Thursday addressed what it termed a “derogatory comment” made by Alex Nicholson in reference to Hyun Gyu Lim at UFC 202.

Nicholson was working the corner of Mike Perry, who made a splash in his Octagon debut with a first-round TKO triumph over Lim that included three knockdowns. After his victory, audio of Nicholson mocking Lim, a native of Seoul, South Korea, surfaced.

“He can’t even open his f---ing eyes,” Nicholson can be heard saying.

The UFC has since pulled the clip, but Nicholson also referred to Lim as “Dung Him Kong Jung Foo” in a post on his Facebook page prior to the fight. According to the Las Vegas-based promotion, Nicholson would face suspension or termination should he be involved in a similar situation in the future.

“UFC competitor Alex Nicholson made a derogatory comment toward another UFC athlete while cornering his teammate, Mike Perry, at UFC 202,” the statement read. “UFC has addressed the matter with Nicholson, as well as Perry, to express the organization’s disappointment with Nicholson’s insensitive remark. As such, the organization informed Nicholson that any future instances of this nature could result in a suspension from competition, or termination of his contract.

“UFC requires all athletes to act in an ethical, responsible and respectful manner, as mandated by the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy. UFC holds its athletes to the highest standard and will continue to take appropriate action if and when it is warranted.”

Nicholson attempted to apologize his remark on Twitter a few days after UFC 202.

“I respect every man who steps in the cage and my comments were insensitive towards Lim,” he wrote. “I was hype for my brother but it’s all love no hate.”

Nicholson last appeared at UFC Fight Night “McDonald vs. Lineker” on July 13, scoring a first-round knockout of Devin Clark. He currently does not have another bout lined up. His teammate, Perry, has been booked to face Danny Roberts at UFC 204 on Oct. 8.