Alex Pereira Voices Concerns Over Referee Herb Dean Amid Upcoming Fight

UFC referee Herb Dean has been facing significant criticism from fans at recent events, particularly following Alex Pereira's remarks after his fight with Ciryl Gane at UFC Freedom 250 in June.

Pereira accused Dean of mishandling a controversial incident during their match, where Gane struck him in the back of the head, an action Pereira believes warranted disqualification. Despite this, the fight continued, resulting in a TKO victory for Gane. Since then, Dean's reception at UFC events has worsened, with other officiating decisions also drawing ire.

While Pereira acknowledges Dean's role as a referee, he emphasizes the importance of fighter safety. He has stated that he feels sympathy for Dean but insists on advocating for better protection of fighters. Pereira has made it clear that he prefers not to have Dean officiate his future fights. As he prepares for a bout against Sergei Pavlovich at UFC 335 on December 12, he also expressed disappointment over not securing a rematch with Gane or a fight against Josh Hokit, despite previous indications that these matchups could occur.