The Weekly Wrap: Feb. 7 - Feb. 13

UFC Tightens Vaseline Rules

Hoping to stave off controversies like the one swirling around the Georges St. Pierre vs. B.J. Penn main event at UFC 94, the UFC has implemented new rules on who it allows to apply Vaseline to fighters. Only one corner man, who’s no longer authorized to apply Vaseline, is allowed in the cage between rounds, and no member of a fighter’s entourage can touch him after Vaseline is applied cage-side. A UFC-sanctioned cut man will now apply the Vaseline in between rounds. Kenny Florian, who cornered Kurt Pellegrino at UFC Fight Night 17 on Feb. 7, said on ESPN.com’s “MMA Live” that he was watched “like a hawk” during the fight and was not allowed to put any Vaseline on Pellegrino.

Penn filed a formal request for an investigation with the Nevada State Athletic Commission, claiming St. Pierre’s cornermen applied Vaseline to his back, which prevented Penn from effectively using his guard. It remains unclear if athletic commissions will have a role in changing their regulations on cornermen or if the new rules will only apply at UFC events.