They say the best referees are the ones who fade into the background, unknown to the audience. Unfortunately, Keith Peterson made a name for himself this past Saturday.
During the UFC Vegas 75 preliminary fight between Daniel Argueta and Ronnie Lawrence, Peterson found himself in the spotlight. In the early stages of the bout, Argueta applied a guillotine choke in an attempt to secure a victory. Lawrence defended skillfully, but as Argueta transitioned into a mounted guillotine, Peterson moved in closer to closely observe the action. However, when Peterson checked whether Lawrence had lost consciousness, Lawrence instinctively pulled his hand away, inadvertently resembling a tapping motion.
In that moment, Peterson made a swift decision, stopping the fight, despite Lawrence’s immediate protests.
It was an unfortunate conclusion to a fight that was only just beginning. However, there is a small glimmer of hope in this situation. At least Lawrence will not be burdened with a loss. After reviewing the incident with the replay official, Peterson acknowledged his error, resulting in the bout being declared a no-contest. Dominick Cruz, a UFC commentator, took the opportunity to criticize Peterson during the live broadcast, and he was not alone in his sentiments.
Let’s take a look at what other fighters had to say about Peterson’s costly blunder.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC Vegas 75 controversy
What happened during the UFC Vegas 75 preliminary fight between Daniel Argueta and Ronnie Lawrence?
During the UFC Vegas 75 prelims, Daniel Argueta and Ronnie Lawrence were engaged in a fight when Argueta attempted a guillotine choke. Keith Peterson, the referee, intervened when Lawrence made a motion that resembled a tap. Peterson stopped the fight, which resulted in immediate protests from Lawrence.
What was the outcome of the fight after Keith Peterson’s intervention?
After consulting with the replay official, Keith Peterson acknowledged his mistake and the bout was ultimately ruled a no-contest. This means that neither fighter was declared the winner or the loser.
How did Dominick Cruz and other fighters react to Keith Peterson’s decision?
Dominick Cruz, a UFC commentator, took the opportunity to criticize Keith Peterson during the live broadcast. Other fighters also expressed their sentiments about Peterson’s blunder, indicating their dissatisfaction with his decision.
What is the significance of a no-contest ruling in a UFC fight?
A no-contest ruling means that the fight ends without a winner or a loser. It usually occurs when there is a significant error or violation that affects the outcome of the bout, such as an accidental foul or a referee’s incorrect judgment.
More about UFC Vegas 75 controversy
- UFC Vegas 75 Recap
- Keith Peterson – UFC Referee Profile
- Dominick Cruz’s Comments on Keith Peterson
- No-Contest Ruling in UFC
- Daniel Argueta – Fighter Profile
- Ronnie Lawrence – Fighter Profile
