UFC fighter Rodolfo Bellato has been accused of faking a knockout in his recent matchup against Paul Craig at UFC Atlanta. The incident led to the fight being declared a no-contest due to an accidental illegal upkick.
Many fans and fellow fighters, including Justin Gaethje, Charles Johnson, and Chris Weidman, have questioned whether Bellato truly hit the canvas or was instead trying to manipulate the situation to his advantage. Former interim lightweight champion Justin Gaethje called it “the biggest flop in MMA history,” while flyweight contender Charles Johnson insisted that Bellato’s actions were a legitimate attempt to get a free win.
Veteran Anthony Smith, who worked as a desk job at UFC Atlanta, also criticized Bellato’s behavior. Smith stated that he believes Bellato was awake and pretending to be unconscious in order to get a cheap win. Smith acknowledged that Paul Craig made an error with the accidental upkick but felt it was avoidable and could have continued the fight.
The situation has sparked debate among fans and fighters, with some feeling that Bellato’s actions were unacceptable and others defending his behavior as a legitimate reaction to the circumstances.
Source: https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/06/15/justin-gaethje-anthony-smith-and-more-fighters-call-out-the-biggest-flop-in-mma-history-at-ufc-atlanta