John McCarthy defends Herb Dean amid Pereira's controversy at UFC fight

At a recent MMA event, Alex Pereira lost to Ciryl Gane during UFC Freedom 250. Following the fight, Pereira expressed strong discontent with referee Herb Dean, alleging that illegal strikes were delivered. Veteran referee John McCarthy provided support for Dean, stating that the strikes in question did not land illegally and explaining the complexities surrounding the rules for striking to the head. McCarthy acknowledged concerns over some of Gane's elbows but emphasized that the majority of strikes were legal. He praised Dean’s overall performance and emphasized the need for referees to avoid heavy interference in fights.

• 9:21 PMYahoo Sports — 'Big' John McCarthy says Alex Pereira has it all wrong with Herb Dean controversy in UFC White House fight