Legendary ref John McCarthy claims Dana White grudge has kept him away from the UFC since 2017

Legendary mixed martial arts referee 'Big' John McCarthy claims a grudge held by Dana White has kept him out of the UFC since 2017. Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, McCarthy stated that the UFC CEO was angered by his past decision to serve as a commentator for rival promotion Bellator. McCarthy alleged that despite athletic commissions assigning officials, the UFC has the influence to block referees they do not want.

McCarthy stepped away from officiating after neck surgery before eventually making a refereeing comeback in October 2025. Although commissions formally oversee assignments, McCarthy claimed the promotion regularly tells regulators which officials they are comfortable with. White has not made public remarks regarding McCarthy's commentary role or his claims.