The debate surrounding UFC Freedom 250 continues, and veteran referee Herb Dean is now addressing the criticism head-on.
Days after Ciryl Gane stopped Alex Pereira to capture the interim heavyweight title at the White House event, questions emerged about several punches that appeared to land near the back of Pereira’s head. Pereira later voiced frustration over the sequence, arguing that the referee should have stepped in. Pereira and his team are even considering an appeal.
Dean, however, believes the strikes were legal under the Unified Rules of MMA.
Dean Explains Back-of-the-Head Rule
In a video posted to social media, Dean responded to fans questioning his handling of the fight and clarified how referees interpret the rule regarding illegal blows.
“I can tell by some of the comments online that I owe you guys an explanation about the rules and how I refereed the fight.”
Dean first praised both competitors before breaking down the rule at the center of the controversy.
“First of all, all respect to both fighters. I’m talking about Gane and Pereira. Amazing fight. OK, so let’s get into it with this rule.”
According to Dean, the area considered illegal is much smaller than many fans realize.
“The rule we’re talking about is the back of the head, and that’s confusing, because it’s different than boxing.”
“The way we enforce this rule is we focus on the nape of the neck,”
“The nape of the neck, or occipital junction, covers the spine and covers a line, right here, with one-inch variance to either side.”
“This area is a fair blow. Here is a fair blow.”
Dean explained that this distinction is discussed with fighters before every event and serves as the standard for officiating during competition.