UFC referee Mark Goddard spoke out about stopping former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya’s fight against Alex Pereira.
The Israel Adesanya vs Alex Pereira fight was a treat for fans. The fight saw both fighters inflict damage on each other with some strong and accurate punches.
While Adesanya looked like he was going to win the fight for the major part. It was Alex Pereira’s brilliant striking in the 5th round that won him the belt.
The fight ended with the referee Marc Goddard stopping the fight resulting in a technical Knock-out for ‘The Last Stylebender’. Now the stoppage has come under scrutiny. Initially, Adesanya was not happy with the stoppage. However, he later clarified that he had no issues with the stoppage once he talked to his coach.
Marc Goddard tweeted:
“My job is to protect. Thank you Israel. Congratulations Alex. God bless.”
The reason for stopping the fight at that point was that Goddard thought Adesanya could not protect himself. In the 5th round, Alex Pereira rained down punches on Israel Adesanya, who looked a little dazed after the first couple of punches connected. He was wobbling and not strong on his legs, and that’s when Goddard stopped the fight.
Marc Goddard added:
Thank you to all who understand the role in which we play, protection is paramount. Decisions are over the second they are made, the conscience lives forever. Honoured, blessed & thankful. On the biggest stage there is, of the fighters, for the fighters – they remain the Kings.
Fans approve of Goddard’s stop for Israel Adesanya vs Alex Pereira fight
Fans approved Goddard’s stop and came out in support. A user commented, “You did the right thing. no hate for any fighter. 13 shots were left unanswered.” Another commented, “Perfect stoppage, he was on ice skates” Another fan had a similar reaction. He said “Saved Izzy from becoming a real highlight KO“. Another user wrote, “You stopped Adesanya from probably getting knocked out cold, good job”