Davis Apologises To Aliev After UFC Abu Dhabi Loss

Mike Davis has apologised to Nurullo Aliev after calling for his opponent's release from the UFC following a unanimous decision loss at UFC Abu Dhabi.

Davis went on a social media rant immediately after the preliminary-card defeat Saturday, complaining about Aliev's grappling-heavy approach and suggesting the promotion cut him from the roster. A day later, per BJ Penn dot com, Davis posted a public apology tagging Aliev and praising his sportsmanship.

Davis Cites Injury And Disappointment In Apology

"In the heat of the moment, I was/am severely disappointed in myself," Davis wrote. "In what I went through to help the @ufc by flying out here, while sick and injured. Disappointed in what I was told before the fight, Disappointed that I wasnt able to give them what they wanted and secure my dream."

Davis told Aliev he respected what the undefeated Tajik fighter does well and that his frustration stemmed from fear of not being able to support his family. "Im a damn good fighter and my frustration took over," he added. The loss drops Davis to 1-2 in his last three UFC appearances after he stopped Mitch Ramirez with a flying knee in his previous outing.

Aliev improved to 12-0 overall and 4-0 in the UFC. All four of the Dana White's Contender Series graduate's promotional wins have gone to the scorecards. Davis is expected to return to the lightweight division later this year.

Original reporting:

• bjpenn.com — UFC Abu Dhabi fighter apologizes for demanding opponent's release following loss: "I am severely disappointed in myself" | BJPenn.com