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Alex Pereira shows sympathy for referee Herb Dean amid criticism

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 6:59 AM

Last updated Oct 22, 2026

Alex Pereira shows sympathy for referee Herb Dean amid criticism

Summary

UFC star Alex Pereira expressed sympathy for referee Herb Dean, who has faced frequent boos from fans at UFC events. Pereira's comments came on 'The Ariel Helwani Show,' where he acknowledged the difficulties Dean faces in his role, particularly after his TKO loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 in June. Despite his sympathy, Pereira stated he prefers not to have Dean officiate his future fights. Dean's officiating has been a point of contention among fighters, and Pereira's stance may influence future assignments for Dean in fights involving the heavyweight contender. Pereira is set to return to the Octagon at UFC 335 in December against Sergei Pavlovich.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Pereira expressed sympathy for Dean's tough position.
•Dean has been criticized and booed by fans lately.
•Pereira prefers Dean not to referee his fights moving forward.
•Dean's role has come under scrutiny since UFC Freedom 250.
•Pereira returns to fight Pavlovich at UFC 335 in December.

Latest Updates

6:59 AMYahoo Sports — Herb Dean Receives Sympathy From UFC Star Alex Pereira

What they're saying

"
UFC star Alex Pereira expressed sympathy towards MMA referee Herb Dean, who has been getting booed routinely by fans at UFC events.Dean was heavily criticized by Pereira in the wake of his TKO loss to Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 in June, in a failed attempt to win the interim UFC heavyweight title. Since […] The post Herb Dean Receives Sympathy From UFC Star Alex Pereira appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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