Henry Cejudo Calls for Herb Dean to Step Away from Officiating

Former multi-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo has publicly suggested that veteran referee Herb Dean should take a hiatus from officiating. Cejudo's remarks come amidst a wave of mounting scrutiny surrounding Dean's performance throughout 2026. Dean has faced significant criticism from prominent figures within the MMA community, marking a challenging year for the longtime official.

Beyond professional critique from fighters and analysts, Dean has faced increased hostility from audiences at live events. The veteran referee has been audibly booed during fighter introductions and has become a frequent subject of mockery across various social media platforms. The recent sentiment from Cejudo adds to the intensifying pressure on the referee, who remains one of the most recognizable figures in the sport's officiating corps.

While high-profile fighters calling for changes to officiating personnel is not uncommon in the sport, the combination of vocal athlete criticism and fan backlash has amplified the conversation regarding Dean's status. As of now, there has been no indication from the promotion or athletic commissions regarding any potential changes to their officiating assignments or internal policies. The situation remains a polarizing topic among fans and industry observers as the 2026 calendar nears its conclusion.

Source: MMA Mania.