Joe Schilling’s return to MMA ended in controversy at the ING Arena in Belgium, as the veteran striker walked out of his PFL Brussels bout following an illegal headbutt from Donegi Abena.
The incident occurred just 37 seconds into the fight, when Schilling was hit with an illegal headbutt while on the ground. Referee Mike Beltran deducted one point from Abena for the foul and informed Schilling that if he chose to stop fighting, he would be ruled the loser.
Schilling initially agreed to continue, but became upset when he was placed back on the mat in the same position. He then elected to walk out, prompting Beltran to call off the fight. Later, Schilling took to Instagram to reaffirm his decision, calling the experience “One of the coolest moments of my life,” and adding, “Everything else is just noise. I know exactly who I am and so does my family. Most of you talking shit couldnt hold my jock strap. My opponent also now exactly who he is and that’s on him. God Bless”.
This bout marked Schilling’s first MMA fight since October 2019. According to the article, Donegi Abena’s record is listed as 1-0 and Schilling’s as 4-7, with Schilling currently on a two-fight losing streak.
