Tom Nolan Ripped By Ray Longo After UFC Vegas 123

Legendary MMA coach Ray Longo took aim at Tom Nolan for dodging questions about the UFC Vegas 123 controversy that erupted after Saturday's main event.

Nolan extended his winning streak to six fights by stopping Renato Moicano in the headliner, but the sequence leading to the finish has become one of the most debated moments of the year. Referee Dan Miragliotta interrupted a ground exchange where Moicano appeared in control, stood both fighters up citing a lack of activity, and Nolan landed the finishing blows moments later. Longtime UFC commentator Joe Rogan called the decision a stain on the sport, per BJPenn.com, while Daniel Cormier urged athletic commissions to take action against Miragliotta.

Longo Blasts Nolan's Post-Fight Response

Speaking on the Anik & Florian Podcast, Longo said Nolan's refusal to acknowledge the stand-up cost him credibility. Longo admitted his opinion of the lightweight shifted after hearing his Octagon interview. "You couldn't get out," Longo said of Nolan's position on the mat, as reported by MMA Junkie. The veteran coach added that Nolan's strategy of throwing elbows to the thigh might have worked eventually but that Moicano was clearly advancing position when Miragliotta intervened.

Longo also questioned how the stand-up aligned with the promotion's stated emphasis on finishes and aggressive action. He said the UFC publicly celebrates knockouts and exciting fights, making the intervention all the more puzzling.

Moicano reportedly will not contest the loss and is set to test free agency. Nolan now moves toward a ranked opponent at 155 pounds when he books his next appearance.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Tom Nolan ripped for handling of UFC Vegas 123 controversy by famous coach