Kevin Holland wants UFC fighters to stop complaining about referees

UFC veteran Kevin Holland has expressed his desire for fighters to reduce their complaints regarding referee decisions. He believes that athletes should focus more on protecting themselves during bouts.

Holland, who has recently been in the spotlight for other reasons, noted that the performance of referees in UFC fights has become a significant topic of discussion. Many fighters and observers have suggested that some referees are not fulfilling their duties adequately.

In a recent interview, Holland shared his perspective on those who are critical of the officiating.

Kevin Holland addresses critics of referees

"I think we're all thinking about the [Alex] Pereira situation," Holland told MMA Fighting. "I remember Jamahal [Hill] was complaining about [Herb Dean] stepping in between them [at UFC 300] and not giving them a proper reset. Nobody said anything about that. I think it's just the same.

"We all know what we step in there to do, and they're there to protect us. Sometimes they can protect us fully, and sometimes they can't. At the end of the day, before the fight starts, it says 'protect yourself at all times,' and we have to protect ourselves. It's part of the game."

"I signed up to be a fighter," Holland stated. "I try to be a fighter first and foremost. If there's ever a situation where I can't fight, it bothers me more than anyone else. This is what we signed up to do. Win, lose, or draw, you signed up for this. So, just accept it.

"I have two sons. I don't want my sons to grow up thinking it's okay to cry and complain and whine about things. There's no reason to whine and complain. Do better next time and figure it out. Be a man."