Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a combat sport that requires intense physical and mental preparation from athletes. However, it is the role of the referee to ensure that fights are conducted in a safe and fair manner. Refereeing an MMA match is not an easy job, and a single mistake by a referee can have dire consequences for the fighters involved. Recently, renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helwani shared a video on Twitter that showed a referee making a grave mistake.
Ariel Helwani shares a video of a horrendous referee mistake
In the video, a fighter had trapped his opponent in a triangle submission, and the opponent fell unconscious before he could tap out. Shockingly, the referee failed to notice that the opponent was unconscious even as the fighter choked his opponent. The referee should have stopped the fight, but he did not. The fighter then transitioned into an armbar, which lasted until the opponent regained consciousness and managed to tap out.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
This is one of the worst jobs by a ref in the history of refereeing. What in the world. As reckless as it gets. pic.twitter.com/M62wys1OA3
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) March 25, 2023
The referee’s lack of action and the continuation of the fight with the armbar could have caused severe injury. The incident has drawn a lot of criticism from fans.
Thee MMA community is demanding the referee be banned from the sport. Here are some of the reactions –
Jesse Ronson had some strong words for the referee
holy fuck. never ever let that idiot ref or have anything to do with combat or health and safety ever again. God damn
— Jesse Ronson (@Ronsoff) March 25, 2023
Nathaniel Woods expressed his opinions to ban the referee
That was upsetting to watch, he needs a ban
— Nathaniel Wood (@TheProspectMMA) March 25, 2023
Many others felt wrong about the entire situation
This made me feel sick. Can’t make that mistake or ever officiate again
— JD Bunkis (@JDBunkis) March 25, 2023
The scenes were too tough to watch for some
That was awful to watch.
— Rob Smith (@robsmithireland) March 25, 2023
One fan thought that the emotional commentary was to be blamed for everything
nah just the obnoxious commentary that makes your mind think so
— Hiruzen Sarutobi (@Iwadab96) March 25, 2023
Twitter was fuming over the video
That guy should never ref anywhere ever again
— Shaun (@Shaunlamb000) March 25, 2023
Some even blamed the fighter’s cornermen
And the corner not throwing in the towel? Wtf?
— Bald Westy (@BroDudeLife) March 25, 2023
A lot of fans are waiting for a ban
Please someone update me that ref has been banned from the sport
— Gino (@GinoDotCom) March 25, 2023
Information about the fight
The video is from during a match at Fury FC 76, held on March 24th, 2023. The two fighters involved in the fight were Edgar Chairez, who applied the submission, and Gianni Vasquez. The scenes are from the fourth round of the fight. The referee’s name is Frank Collazo.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The incident highlights the importance of the referee’s job in MMA. A referee’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of the fighters. Any mistake or negligence on the part of the referee can lead to severe injury or even death. The first priority of a referee is to make the right decisions quickly and confidently.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story – MMA Pros React To Jon Jones Flawless Performance At UFC 285
The incident at Fury FC 76 is a clear example of a referee failing to perform his duties, which resulted in a dangerous situation for the fighters involved. The incident has raised concerns about the training and supervision of referees in the sport.