Herb Dean wants to discuss Joe Rogan’s critical commentary during UFC 306, particularly regarding his refereeing tactics in the main event between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley, as it led to negative social media feedback despite his longstanding approach to ensuring active engagement in fights.
Herb Dean wants to chat with Joe Rogan and the UFC 306 broadcast team after the event at Sphere. The veteran referee was in charge during the main event featuring new bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili against Sean O’Malley.
In the final rounds, Dean repeatedly urged Dvalishvili to be more active on the ground. Rogan didn’t hold back, calling Dean’s actions “insane” and criticizing him throughout. On the JAXXON Podcast, Dean acknowledged that social media backlash stemmed from these commentary critiques.
“I’m not sure if I totally understand that myself,” Dean admitted. He emphasized he didn’t want to create tension with analysts who’ve generally been supportive over the years.
Dean expressed a desire to discuss this with the commentators. He noticed that social media echoed the analysts’ opinions, confirming his suspicions about the source of criticism.
Dvalishvili won via unanimous decision, though it wasn’t a Fight of the Year contender. Dean also dealt with odd moments like Dvalishvili shouting at O’Malley’s coach and kissing O’Malley’s back during a round break.
Rogan’s comments, however, drew most of the negative spotlight onto Dean post-UFC 306. “They’re saying that I shouldn’t be telling the guys to work,” Dean explained. He defended his approach, highlighting rules for safety, fairness, and excitement in MMA.
Dean mentioned coaches know his pre-fight instructions by heart. He stresses two key interventions: “Fight back” and “work,” signaling fighters when action is necessary to maintain or change their position.
Instead of mere tapping punches, Dean expects fighters to posture for bigger shots. He wants them advancing positions or attempting takedowns to drive towards a fight conclusion.
For newer fans grasping MMA’s complexities, Dean clarifies why he issues such warnings. “If you have a superior position but aren’t using it to win, you’re just burning time,” he stated. “That’s not what we want our sport to look like.”