I am on occasion asked to comment on potential MMA rules changes or modifications to better help protect the fighters and the integrity of the sport.  In light of the recent controversy during the main event at UFC 94 regarding the alleged inappropriate use of Vaseline, I offer a simple and effective rules modification.

Prohibit corner men associated with the fighter access to the cage, octagon or ring during a bout.  Prohibit physical contact with the fighter by anyone outside the cage, octagon or ring during a bout.

All physical contact (toweling perspiration, supplying water etc...) and ‘cut work’ to be performed solely by authorized state sanctioned personnel. 

Example:

The UFC currently employs an expert ‘cut’ team (headed by two of the Greats, ‘Stitch” and Mr. Leon Tabb) for each corner.  These impartial ‘cut teams’, ring side medical staff, referees and athletic commission officials should be the only people allowed access to the cage, octagon or ring during a bout.  The above mentioned parties should be the only persons allowed physical contact with a fighter during a bout. 

Individual fighter team members should only give instruction from outside the cage, octagon or ring.  They should have NO physical contact with the fighter after the fighter has been inspected by the referee prior to entering the fighting structure.

There can be no question as to the integrity of the process.  Even the perception of impropriety cannot be tolerated. 

This simple and easily enforceable rules modification can adequately address the potential issue of fighter contamination.