Herb Dean responds to recent criticism of UFC officiating
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 5:30 AM
Last updated Jul 21, 2026
Herb Dean, a longtime UFC referee, is addressing recent criticisms regarding his officiating, according to John McCarthy. Dean's controversial decisions in recent fights, including incidents involving Ciryl Gane and Vinicius Oliveira, have drawn scrutiny. The Nevada State Athletic Commission is supporting Dean by assigning Mike Beltran for key fights to help him step back from high-pressure situations. McCarthy reports that Dean is aware of the criticism and is committed to improving his officiating in the future.
- •Herb Dean faces criticism for officiating in recent controversial fights.
- •John McCarthy states Dean is open to feedback and self-improvement.
- •The Nevada State Athletic Commission has modified fight assignments for Dean.
- •Dean has over 20 years of experience as a UFC referee.
- 5:30 AMYahoo Sports — Herb Dean Taking UFC Refereeing Criticism to Heart
"Longtime MMA official Herb Dean is taking the recent criticism of his officiating to heart, says legendary referee “Big” John McCarthy.Dean has been involved in several controversial fights over the past few months that have drawn criticism from fighters, fans, and the media, such as his failure to penalize Ciryl Gane for hitting Alex Pereira […] The post Herb Dean Taking UFC Refereeing Criticism to Heart appeared first on HEAVY.
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