Marc Goddard recently provided an in-depth explanation of how takedowns are evaluated in MMA fights.
The value of takedowns in the estimation of MMA judges remains a very polarizing and complex issue, especially considering that judging is one of the most crucial elements of the sport.
The MMA community often finds itself at odds over the criteria used for scoring takedowns, especially in grappling-heavy contests, leading to contentious and often unsatisfactory results in high-stakes matches.
With over 20 years of experience, Goddard has solidified his status as one of the most venerable referees in MMA, having officiated numerous marquee matchups in the UFC and other top promotions. Considering his extensive background, it’s evident that the 50-year-old official has a nuanced understanding of the ins and outs of the game.
Goddard Outlines How MMA Judges Focus On Inflicted Damage When Scoring Fights
During a recent interview with talkSPORT MMA, Goddard was prompted to elaborate on the influence of takedowns on judges' scoring in an MMA bout. The renowned referee pointed out the absurdity of the belief that simply scoring a takedown and finishing a round on top guarantees a fighter wins that round. He emphasized that not all takedowns carry the same weight and that judges perceive them differently.
People think that if you finish the round on top or you take someone down that you've won the round; it's so absurd," Goddard said. "Not all takedowns are the same, obviously, as not all punches and not all kicks are the same. So if I take you down, if I just run into you and bundle you to the ground and I land in a closed guard or a half guard, yes, it's an offensive action; yes, it can be given some credit, but it bears absolutely no significance compared to somebody who, like I said, comes back to the effectiveness, the damage, and the impact.
Goddard elaborated that in a fight, judges hone in on the damage a fighter inflicts on their opponent, viewing it as the primary metric for scoring while everything else merely serves as a supporting detail - even in the context of a takedown.
Meaning, the type of takedown is considered by judges.
If I clinch with you and I hip tie you or suplex you over my head and slam you or bang you into that mat with impact, again, that could outdo 12 or f**king 13 outside bundles or trips you had before when we fight. Make no mistake about it; the number one criterion, the preeminent factor that a judge will consider, is damage. That's what it is. It used to be the word 'impact'; they never liked the word 'damage,' but let's be honest: you're in a fight, and my job is to damage you within the realms of the rules to render you potentially unable to continue in that fight anymore.