🔴 LATEST NEWS: UFC SUMMONS REFEREE HERB DEAN AFTER SHOCKING CHEATING ALLEGATIONS INVOLVING ALEX PEREIRA AND MAGOMED ANKALAEV
In an unexpected turn of events that has rocked the MMA world, the UFC has officially summoned veteran referee Herb Dean following a wave of cheating allegations surrounding the light heavyweight clash between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev. The incident, which occurred during their highly anticipated rematch, has left fans, fighters, and analysts stunned, calling into question the integrity of one of the most respected referees in the sport.
According to multiple witnesses and video replays circulating online, Herb Dean allegedly intervened multiple times during critical moments of the fight — specifically when Ankalaev was on the verge of knocking out Pereira. Each time, the referee reportedly stepped in under the pretext of a technical check or safety concern, halting the momentum of the Russian fighter and allowing Pereira to recover.
The controversial stoppages immediately sparked outrage among fans, who flooded social media with accusations of bias and favoritism. “That was a robbery in plain sight,” one fan commented on X (formerly Twitter). “Ankalaev had him finished, but the referee just wouldn’t let it happen.”
Sources close to the UFC revealed that the organization acted swiftly, summoning Herb Dean for an internal review to address the growing controversy. A UFC spokesperson stated:
“The UFC takes all officiating matters seriously. We are reviewing the referee’s actions during the Pereira–Ankalaev bout to ensure that all decisions were made in accordance with the rules and in the interest of fighter safety.”
However, others within the MMA community have come to Herb Dean’s defense, citing his long history of professionalism and quick judgment in high-pressure situations. Veteran commentator Joe Rogan noted that while Dean’s decisions were “questionable,” he doesn’t believe there was malicious intent. “Herb has always been one of the best. But even the best can make mistakes under chaos,” Rogan said during his podcast.
As for the fighters, Ankalaev broke his silence shortly after the bout, expressing deep frustration:
“I trained for months for this moment. I had him finished, but someone decided I shouldn’t win tonight. This isn’t fair — not for me, not for the fans, and not for the sport.”
Meanwhile, Pereira has remained relatively quiet, choosing only to post a cryptic message on Instagram: “A warrior fights, no matter the noise.”
The UFC’s decision, expected to be announced within the next few days, could have major implications for both fighters and future officiating protocols. If wrongdoing is confirmed, it could lead to disciplinary action or even a rematch under stricter supervision.
For now, the MMA world holds its breath, waiting for the final verdict — one that could redefine the conversation around referee accountability in the octagon.
