Askhabov faced Reinaldo Ekson at Airtox Dominance FC 8 on Oct. 17 in Copenhagen, Denmark. According to the Danish Mixed Martial Arts Federation, Askhabov attempted to attack Ekson after the referee called a timeout for a suspected eye poke. The bout was stopped, and Askhabov was initially declared the winner by technical knockout.
DMMAF disqualifies Khusein Askhabov for actions during a referee timeout against Reinaldo Ekson
The Danish Mixed Martial Arts Federation (DMMAF) reviewed the incident and overturned the result.
“Having reviewed the incident, DMMAF has determined that Askhabov’s actions during the timeout constituted a serious violation of the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts and warranted disqualification, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the initial stoppage,” DMMAF wrote in an official statement.
Ekson was declared the winner by disqualification. The federation also suspended Askhabov and his corner team for 12 months from DMMAF-sanctioned events and activities.
“The DMMAF Board has therefore decided to: Overturn the original result and declare Reinaldo Ekson Oliveira the winner by disqualification (DQ). Impose a 12-month disciplinary suspension on Khusein Askhabov and his corner team from all DMMAF-sanctioned events and activities, including participation as a fighter, coach, cornerman, or in any other capacity, in accordance with the federation’s Code of Conduct.”
Askhabov’s lone UFC appearance came against Jamall Emmers in 2023. He lost by unanimous decision, the first defeat of his professional career.
Later that year, the UFC canceled Askhabov’s scheduled bout with Daniel Pineda after an arrest in Thailand. According to a report from Phuket News, he was questioned by authorities over allegations of kidnapping, torture and extortion. Reports subsequently said charges against Askhabov and a relative were dropped.