In the octagon, fighters typically come in with a brutal mindset, aiming to finish their opponents in the most violent way possible. However, at UFC 306, fans witnessed something unprecedented. During the fight, Sean O’Malley was kissed by Merab Dvalishvili, an incident that left many shocked. Referee Herb Dean later addressed this unexpected moment, making it a standout in UFC history.
The two fighters found themselves in a clinch in the second round of the UFC 306 main event featuring O’Malley and Dvalishvili. Out of nowhere, Dvalishvili began planting kisses on O’Malley’s back, which drew the attention of the referee, Dean, who was officiating the bout. In a recent interview with Helen Yee, Dean shared his surprise at this unusual incident.
“That does fall under unsportsmanlike conduct, “It was a little bit romantic. A little too much romance.” Dean Said to Yee.
This was one of the funniest moments of UFC 306, and not only did Dean notice it, but fans also took the incident viral on social media. However, during the fight, there were stoppages due to the rule break, which led to criticism directed at the veteran referee from the fans.
Herb Dean Addresses Backlash: Clarity on Controversial Calls in UFC 306 Main Event
The main event of UFC 306 saw an epic showdown between O’Malley and Dvalishvili, with ‘The Machine’ emerging victorious and claiming the bantamweight title. The fight began on a controversial note when Referee Dean had to intervene to stop O’Malley’s coach, Tim Welch, and Dvalishvili from communicating during the match, as this violated the rules. Many fans and even the UFC commentary team were unaware of the excessive coaching regulations. In a recent interview with Helen Yee, Dean commented,
“It happens and we do address it and it’s been happening for as long as the sport’s been here, and even coaching the referee through the fighter, ‘Okay well Herb’s gonna stand you up because all he wants to do is hold you and he’s a boring b*ch-ass wrestler’, you know what I mean?”
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral MMA stories via Google! Follow Us
Dean also faced criticism for instructing fighters to “work” during the bout. However, there’s no denying that he is one of the UFC’s top referees, having officiated nearly all major main-event fights. Dean addressed the recent backlash from fans, and they will eagerly await his return to the octagon for another main event.
Also Read: Lightweight Ace Dan Hooker Threatens Renato Moicano Over the Claims Made by the Star Grappler
