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In a recent episode of Mike Perry’s Overdogs Podcast, veteran MMA referee Marc Goddard opened up about his professional ethics and why he opts not to referee fights involving UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards.
Goddard, known for his decades-long career in MMA officiating, revealed a personal connection that dates back to Edwards' early days in the sport.
"Leon Edwards," Goddard shared, "was one of my first MMA students, starting out as a raw amateur under my guidance. Over the years, he's risen to become the UFC welterweight champion."
Despite Edwards' success, Goddard maintains a strict policy to avoid officiating his fights.
"You've never seen me referee Leon Edwards in the UFC and you never will," Goddard emphasized. "It's about maintaining professionalism and avoiding any potential conflicts of interest. I want to ensure fairness and eliminate any perception of bias."
Goddard's decision reflects his commitment to the integrity of officiating in MMA. His transparency extends beyond personal relationships to include meticulous decision-making in high-stakes bouts. Notably, he declined to officiate the rematch between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira following their contentious first encounter.
"I specifically requested not to referee that fight," Goddard explained. "My focus was on ensuring fairness for Adesanya after their previous bout. It's crucial to prioritize the fighters' experience and avoid any distractions that could detract from their performance."
With over two decades in the sport, Goddard's approach underscores his dedication to maintaining professionalism and minimizing controversy.
"I'm here to support the fighters and uphold the standards of officiating," he affirmed. "Every decision I make is rooted in ensuring a level playing field and preserving the integrity of MMA."
As Goddard continues to navigate the complexities of his role, he remains steadfast in his commitment to fairness and professionalism, setting a standard for referees across the MMA landscape.
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