While he visually came across as the victim of Saturday’s infamous brawl after the “Strikeforce: Nashville” main-event, Jason “Mayhem” Miller accepted blame and apologized in a statement Monday.
“I would like to formally apologize to CBS, Strikeforce, and all fans of mixed martial arts for my role in the events following the Strikeforce: Nashville event,” wrote Miller on Mayhem’s Monkeys. “In retrospect, my timing could not have been worse to ask for my rematch with Jake Sheilds, and I take full responsibility for entering the cage and setting off a chain of events that cast a dark shadow on the sport.”
Following Shields’ definitive decision victory over Dan Henderson, “Mayhem” entered the ring to ask Shields about a rematch with the champion. With all sources claiming that this was an unplanned interaction–as opposed to the commonly ‘choreographed’ post-fight showdown to hype a future bout–the situation was not handled with tact.
Shields admits to shoving Miller, at which point, the ‘macho’ mindset of those in the ring took over; Shields’ teammates Gilbert Melendez, Nick Diaz and Nate Diaz were among those who attacked Miller before the fight could be broken up.
While such a brawl would never be viewed favorably by mixed martial arts defenders, the situation came under additional fire due to the fact that the show aired nationally on CBS. Already a poor ratings performer for the network and already counter to its older, more conservative programming image, “Strikeforce” has limited breathing room for earning a reputation as ‘trash television.’
Responding to that concern, Mayhem added. “I’ve been a fighter and a fan of MMA for over 12 years, and would never do anything to intentionally tarnish the sport I’ve given my life to. In the excitement of the moment I let my emotions run high and made a bad choice that resulted in a debacle, for that, I sincerely apologize.”
