UFC Fighters, Including Champion, Criticize Senior Referee Over Controversial Calls

UFC senior referee Herb Dean, long regarded as a standard-bearer in MMA officiating with over two decades of experience, is facing growing criticism from fighters and fans alike. While Dean was once seen as a model official in major championship bouts, recent events have sparked a backlash against his refereeing decisions.

The controversy intensified after UFC Fight Night at the White House, where Brazilian fighter Alex Pereira lost his title fight to Ciryl Gane. Pereira accused Dean of allowing illegal strikes to the back of his head and launched a social media campaign expressing fear of fighting while Dean remains a referee. This criticism initially came mainly from Pereira but has since expanded.

Following a recent bout where Shara Magomedov repeatedly grabbed Michel Pereira’s hair and poked his eyes without penalty, more fighters have voiced concerns. Heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall posted a video highlighting these incidents, stating, "MMA doesn’t have ‘rules’ anymore. It’s just ‘suggestions.’" Former UFC fighter Jorge Masvidal, a fan favorite, has also joined the chorus of criticism.

UFC President Dana White has been asked about the situation, though his comments were not detailed in the report. The growing dissatisfaction among top fighters signals potential pressure on UFC to review referee standards and enforcement going forward.