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“Much Love, Big John”: UFC World Joins Former Referee John McCarthy to Mourn Saddening Loss

Published 03/25/2023, 2:02 AM EDT

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MMA world mourns another saddening loss as former UFC referee John McCarthy announced the loss of his mother. The 60-year-old shared the news with a short message and a picture of himself with his beloved mom.

‘Big’ John McCarthy is one of the staple figures in the sport of MMA. The 60-year-old was instrumental in the initial days of the UFC and made immense contributions to shape it into what it is today. He also played a significant role in formulating the combined rule set for the sport of MMA.

McCarthy was also one of the most prominent referees in the UFC and all of MMA. He has refereed many high-profile fights involving the likes of Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Nate Diaz, etc.

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Therefore, many prominent MMA figures flooded the comment section, offering condolences to the MMA stalwart for his personal loss.

Fans offer condolences to former UFC referee John McCarthy for personal loss

In the caption of the post announcing the news, the retired MMA referee wrote, “RIP Mom.. relieved you are finally at peace.. ❤️” His ‘Weighing In’ show co-host and ex-UFC star Josh Thomson, MMA coach Eric Nicksick, UFC legend Clay Guida, Bellator star Patricky Pitbull, Conor McGregor’s teammate Kiefer Crosbie, etc paid condolences in the comments.

Other reactions from the fans included:

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  • May God comfort your heart
  • Much love, Big John
  • Love you John. Will keep your family in my prayers
  • Sorry for you and your family’s loss.
  • Prayers to you and your family!
  • May her soul bathe in eternal peace and love! ❤️ My sincere condoleances maestro!
  • Sorry for your loss Big John condolences to you and to all your family at this time
  • Sorry for your loss brother. Keeping the family in my thoughts.
  • Sorry John. I just lost mine in the 5th. I felt the same way…. I’m happy their pain is past them. Be well

‘Big’ John McCarthy is a living legend for the sport of MMA. Revered and loved by the MMA community, his loss is deeply saddening for many fans and pros, as revealed in the responses to the news.

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In 2018, McCarthy gave up his refereeing career at the UFC and joined Bellator MMA as a commentator. Fans can only hope to see McCarthy back at his duties once he recovers from this devastating loss.

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Written by:

Yeswanth Praveen

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Yeswanth Praveen is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. His interests mainly lie in the realm of MMA, bodybuilding, and the fitness industry. He finished his Master's in English literature from EFLU, Hyderabad.
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Edited by:

Debmallya Chakraborty