LAS VEGAS – Dutch heavyweight Gilbert Yvel has been given another chance to fight in Nevada. After a face-to-face meeting Friday with the Nevada State Athletic Commission, he was given a one-fight license to compete in the Silver State.
During the meeting, he addressed concerns about his controversial past and made assurances he would behave honorably in competition.
Yvel was denied a license to fight Sergei Kharitonov for Pride 33 in February 2007 due to several well-publicized incidents involving disqualification and misconduct towards a referee.
Speaking exclusively to MMAWeekly.com afterwards, Yvel said today’s decision was the beginning of a new career.
“It’s a relief,” he said. “I’m happy that they gave me a chance and I got treated like all the fighters.”
Yvel’s manager/trainer, John Lewis, said the news could open the door for a fight in the UFC, though he offered no timetable for an appearance.
Yvel is a beast !
