Rich Swann’s efforts to have his suspension and fine overturned by the league have been overruled by Major League Wrestling. With Swann’s appeal failing, Swann’s suspension goes into effect immediately.

Top ranked middleweight Swann was fined $3,000 and suspended for punching a referee and shoving broadcaster Rich Bocchini following his match on the February 16th MLW FUSION.

Swann said he meant to hit his opponent in the chest to “get some space”. The blow broke the official’s jaw and dislodged three of his teeth.

The suspension was handed down by the league’s wrestling operations office on Sunday February 17.

If Swann demonstrates good behavior and pays his fine in a timely fashion, the suspension is expected to be lifted in 6-8 weeks but remains at the discretion of the league’s wrestling operations office.