“Damn…”: Fans React as Referee Herb Dean Takes Huge Step After MMA Star Itsuki Hirata Fails to Impress at ONE Fight Night 8

Being a referee in the world of mixed martial arts is undeniably a troublesome job. While the referees are responsible for keeping a close eye on the fights and making split-second decisions in order to prevent grievances, they frequently face backlash from the public for making wrong decisions. However, Herb Dean is considered one of the best referees to have ever graced an MMA cage. However, even he has seldom escaped from the clutches of fans disappointed by his decisions. 

Recently, during the excitement of ONE Fight Night 8, Dean was forced to give out a yellow card. The fight pitted the Japanese fighter, Itsuki Hirata, against Ham Seo Hee. Without a moment’s delay, the MMA fans took over the social media platforms and revealed their opinions on Dean’s decision.

Herb Dean gives out a yellow card

ONE Fight Night 8 was undeniably packed with excitement. However, the world was seemingly disappointed with Hirata’s performance against Hee. The bout began with both fighters high on hesitation. Nevertheless, the #2 contender began putting some pressure on her opponent, followed by Hirata’s takedown attempts. Round two began with inactivity from the Japanese corner, and Dean issued a warning to Hirata. 

This apparently forced her to take some action. However, she was focused on taking the fight to the ground. Unfortunately for Hirata, Hee was quick on her feet and kept throwing a barrage of attacks. Finally, Hirata found an opening and kept her opponent pinned till the bell rang. Despite Dean’s warning, Hirata was low on offense. Surprisingly, Dean issued a yellow card to the fighter. The battle ended with a victory for Hee. 

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However, it was Dean giving out a yellow card that amazed the fans on Twitter. A fan who goes by the name @Grabaka_Hitman shared the moment and wrote, “Damn a Herb Dean yellow card.” One fan pointed out that Dean was the one who decided whether he’d do his job or not.

Another fan joked that Dean probably thought it was a soccer match.

A few fans dissed the fight and believed that the referee did the right thing.

Additionally, a few others added the moment to their collection of memes.

The world was indeed shocked at Dean’s action. However, the referee has several times been bashed for his decisions inside the cage.

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What are your thoughts on Dean’s actions? Do you agree with it?