Chris Weidman marks UFC comeback with controversial win over Bruno Silva

Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) star Chris Weidman's return to the ring on Saturday was marked with a victory against Bruno Silva but it came out of a controversy.

Weidman, who returned to the UFC after suffering a leg injury in his last fight against Brad Tavares, kicked off his battle against Silva in Atlantic City, fighting strong in the first round, MMA Fighting reported.

He executed some big shots and takedowns before focusing on the fence.

Meanwhile, Silva dominated the second round, avoiding takedowns and delivering punches despite an accidental eye poke, a move which the UFC deems illegal.

Later in the game, "The All-American" gained some momentum by stinging Silva and making a nice flurry.

In the third round, both fighters ended up receiving eye pokes, but Weidman appeared to drop Silva, and the referee stopped it.

According to a replay of the move, Weidman landed multiple eye pokes, sending Silva to the canvas.

Lead commentator Brendan Fitzgerald, after Weidman's post-victory interview, revealed that the fighters proceeded to the cards after the eye pokes, with Weidman winning via a technical decision.

The fight raised eyebrows among many and garnered mixed reactions from UFC stars on social media.

UFC star Sodiq Yusuff took to X writing: "That's just wrong man. With everything that comes with losing a fight, I feel for Bruno."

Another UFC star, Brian Kelleher, wrote: "I’m sorry but there’s some favouritism taking place here."