Retired MMA referee John McCarthy is one of the sport’s pioneers, although he has not fought in it. McCarthy has been with the sport since its inception in the early 90s, and the MMA community reveres him. Recently, McCarthy faced severe accusations from Tank Abbott, an ex-UFC heavyweight.
Abbott, a former UFC title challenger, recently appeared on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast. On the podcast, Abbot blasted McCarthy for his loss to Oleg Taktarov at the UFC 6 Tournament final. He also accused the referee of favoritism for Bas Rutten over Kevin Randleman at the UFC 20 heavyweight title fight.
Big John McCarthy responds to criticism from Tank Abbott
After retiring from MMA, John McCarthy became a podcaster, commentator, and analyst. He now works with the PFL and has a podcast with retired MMA champion Josh Thomson, Weighing In. McCarthy responded to Abbott’s criticism on a recent episode of the podcast.
“He [Tank Abbott] has just come up with some things in his mind. What really is amazing to me…He always believes that I hated him. I never hated Tank, that was not the case…It’s one of the craziest things because it’s like, it’s obvious I live rent free in Tank Abbott’s head,” said McCarthy.
The retired referee explained Abbott was an alcoholic and the problems stemmed from it. He also revealed a story where Abbott threatened McCarthy’s wife, Elaine, who worked with the UFC. Moreover, McCarthy promised he would never favor any fighter against Abbott.
Nonetheless, fans loved Abbott due to his fighting style and personality. In the early days, MMA fights had no rounds, and Abbott thrived in such situations. Nevertheless, Abbot retired, accumulating more losses than wins.
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