Holland On Fighters Complaining About Referees

Kevin Holland says fighters waste too much energy blaming referees instead of taking responsibility for what happens in the cage.

The eight-year UFC veteran defended referee Herb Dean in comments to MMA Fighting, calling out the wave of criticism Dean has faced since Alex Pereira publicly complained about the officiating at the White House card. Pereira was stopped by Ciryl Gane that night after eating several punches while hurt, some of which appeared to land on the back of his head.

Holland Says Fighters Need To Man Up

Holland pointed out that fighters know what they sign up for when they step into the octagon. "I've got two sons, I don't have two daughters," he told MMA Fighting. "I don't want my sons to grow up thinking it's OK to cry and complain. There's no reason to bitch and complain. Do better next time and figure it out. Man up."

The welterweight has endured his own share of controversial moments with Dean officiating, including short grabs during his fight with Khamzat Chimaev and a head butt knockout in another bout. Holland said he never publicly complained about any of those incidents.

Dean has been booed at recent events following Pereira's criticism, though he has received support from UFC CEO Dana White and California State Athletic Commission executive director Andy Foster. Holland believes more fighters need to remember the nature of the sport. "We know what we're getting ourselves into," he said. "That's what it all boils down to."

Holland returns to action later this year with no opponent announced yet.

Reported via:

• MMA Fighting — Kevin Holland argues fighters spend too much time complaining about referees: ‘There’s no reason to bitch and complain’