Herb Dean

Herb Dean is a distinguished professional mixed martial arts referee and former mixed martial artist, renowned for his exceptional contributions to the sport. His career as a referee has seen him officiate high-profile events for major promotions, including the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and ONE Championship. Dean has earned a reputation as the gold standard for referees in MMA, with notable endorsements from UFC president Dana White and commentator Joe Rogan, who have praised his keen eye for safety and ability to make critical decisions in the heat of the moment.

Throughout his career, Dean has officiated several landmark bouts, showcasing his expertise and commitment to fighter safety. At UFC 48, he made headlines for stopping the fight between Tim Sylvia and Frank Mir when he recognized Sylvia’s arm had broken, a decision that ultimately saved Sylvia’s career. His quick thinking and decisive actions have been pivotal in numerous matches, including the TKO stoppage of Tito Ortiz against Ken Shamrock at UFC 61, where he ensured the safety of the fighters amidst intense competition.

Dean’s accolades extend beyond individual matches; he has been recognized multiple times as the Referee of the Year by Fighters Only Magazine, winning the award in 2010 through 2014 and again in 2018, 2019, and 2021. His consistent performance and dedication to the sport have solidified his status as a leading figure in MMA officiating.

In addition to his refereeing career, Dean has also made appearances in popular media, including the EA Sports UFC video game series, where he serves as the sole referee. His influence in the sport continues to grow, as he remains a respected authority in mixed martial arts, committed to upholding the integrity and safety of the competition.