Dana White, the UFC CEO, has voiced his strong disapproval of the controversial decision that cost Valentina Shevchenko her chance to reclaim her title at Noche UFC, last Saturday. The current UFC flyweight champion, Alexa Grasso, held onto her title when the fight was declared a split draw. In the UFC, a draw means the champion still retains their title.

The closely contested fight saw both fighters having significant moments of advantage. In a recent interview with TheMacLife, Dana White expressed his frustration with the result and questioned the judges’ decisions, particularly focusing on judge Mike Bell’s scorecard.

Dana White had this to say about the judges at Noche UFC

Dana White questioned the inconsistency in judging. Particularly highlighting that Valentina Shevchenko getting dropped in one of the earlier rounds wasn’t considered a 10-8. Yet the 5th round received that score. He said, “that’s not a 10-8, but the 5th round is a 10-8? It literally makes no sense.”  The scorecard in question was the one marked by Judge Mike Bell.

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The interviewer also asked if judges don’t speak to the media or fans, they should at least be able to explain their decisions to the fighters privately. Dana White disagreed with this idea. He stressed that while judges are human and can make mistakes, he viewed this specific decision as a clear and significant error.

He stated, “No, no you’re not gonna see that. You have to understand too, I’m not defending anything, these people are human, they make mistakes but this one is total bullsh*t.””

Who Is MMA Judge Mike Bell? What Was the Controversial Decision He Made at UFC Noche: Valentina Shevchenko vs. Alexa Grasso?

The criticism of the judging decisions has been widespread in the MMA world. Many, including cage side commentators Daniel Cormier and Dominick Cruz, expressed their bewilderment and disgust at Bell’s 10-8 scorecard.

The future of the UFC women’s flyweight division

Despite the controversy, Dana White believes that Valentina Shevchenko deserves a rematch for an immediate title shot. However, Shevchenko’s revelation that she sustained an injury in the fight requiring surgery means she will be out of action for an extended period.

Nevertheless, the flyweight division remains competitive, with several contenders vying for a title shot. White suggested that a fight between Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot could determine the No. 1 contender. Both fighters secured big wins in their most recent matchups.

The judging controversy in the UFC has highlighted the need for clarity in scoring criteria utilized by judges to determine the winner. As of now, the rematch hasn’t been officially scheduled. But fans are looking forward to the announcement. And speculating if this fight will go differently than their first two encounters.

What are your thoughts on the controversial decision? Share your opinions in the comments below.

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