Jorge Masvidal Calls for Retirement of Longtime Referee Herb Dean

Former UFC welterweight contender Jorge Masvidal has publicly criticized the officiating career of veteran referee Herb Dean. In recent comments, Masvidal suggested that Dean’s lengthy tenure in the sport has reached its conclusion, citing recent controversies involving the official as evidence that it is time for him to step away from the Octagon.

Masvidal attributed recent officiating errors to what he described as "nervous energy," suggesting that the pressure of the role has become a detriment to the veteran referee's performance. Dean has been a fixture in major MMA promotions for over two decades, consistently officiating high-profile matchups and main events. Despite his extensive experience, he has faced increased scrutiny throughout the current year regarding his split-second decision-making and intervention timing.

The criticism from Masvidal arrives amidst ongoing debates regarding the consistency and standards of officiating within the UFC. While Dean remains one of the most frequently utilized referees in the sport, his recent performances have sparked vocal reactions from fighters and analysts alike. Masvidal’s stance reflects a growing segment of the MMA community that is increasingly questioning the longevity of long-standing officials in an evolving sport. At this time, no official response has been issued by the UFC or regulatory bodies regarding Masvidal's assessment of the veteran referee's status.

Source: MMA Mania.