Joe Rogan, a seasoned observer of mixed martial arts, expressed strong disapproval regarding a fight at UFC 314, labeling it exceptionally controversial.
The final preliminary match of the evening featured featherweights Dan Ige and Sean Woodson in what appeared to be a closely contested three-round battle. However, the fight`s potential duration was cut short due to referee Andrew Glenn`s intervention, which Rogan deemed excessive.
In the third round, Ige gained a dominant position over Woodson, prompting Woodson to attempt a takedown. While Woodson was holding onto Ige`s leg, Ige responded with hammer fists. Amidst this struggle, referee Glenn halted the fight.
Rogan, from his commentary position, immediately voiced his sharp criticism of Glenn`s decision.
“That’s unbelievable,” Rogan exclaimed. “That’s a terrible stoppage. Really bad. I absolutely don`t understand it.”
“That was an awful call,” he reiterated. “Honestly, it’s among the worst stoppages I have ever witnessed. You have to allow a fighter the chance to recover. He was receiving some close-range strikes, but he was defending himself.”
Daniel Cormier, also providing commentary, expressed sympathy for Woodson.
“The significant thing here is that this fighter could have been in the rankings next week,” Cormier pointed out. “Now, he forfeits a portion of his earnings. Furthermore, I`m curious about the judges` scorecards up to that point. If he was ahead after two rounds, this decision is even more devastating and completely unjustified.”
Official scorecards later revealed that Ige was indeed leading after two rounds, making the premature stoppage even more detrimental to Woodson`s potential comeback.
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