Dominick Cruz believes UFC referees should face the same crowd backlash as fighters, arguing that officials wield enormous influence over the outcome of a bout and should not expect to escape criticism when fans disagree with their decisions.
The former UFC bantamweight champion shared his thoughts during an appearance on Love and War with Dominick Cruz, where former UFC champion T.J. Dillashaw also weighed in on the treatment of referees.
Their comments come amid renewed scrutiny of officiating in the Octagon, with veteran referee Herb Dean drawing criticism over several controversial incidents.
Dominick Cruz And T.J. Dillashaw Explain Why UFC Referees Deserve Boos
The UFC Hall of Famer dismissed the idea that fans should feel sympathy for referees who are booed, pointing out that fighters routinely face the same reaction despite putting themselves in harm’s way.
I don’t feel bad for Herb Dean, and I’ll tell you why: because we get booed all the time, and we’re the ones getting our asses kicked. If you’re going to be in the house going with us, you get to feel the shit too. Do you think the referee has more power over the fight and who wins and loses, or us?” Cruz said.
Dillashaw agreed with the sentiment, highlighting the authority officials have to intervene and end a contest. He also delivered a pointed jab at Dean before quickly making clear that his remark was intended as a joke.
They can stop the fight whenever they want, so why shouldn’t they be booed? F*ck you, Herb Dean. I’m just joking,” Dillashaw said.
“The Dominator” knows firsthand how heated disputes over officiating can become. At UFC 249 in May 2020, he suffered a second-round stoppage loss to Henry Cejudo and sharply criticized referee Keith Peterson afterward.
Cruz questioned Peterson’s condition following the fight, claiming the official smelled of alcohol and cigarettes. The comments sparked a long-running public feud, with Cruz repeatedly revisiting the incident when discussing controversial refereeing.
