Why UFC Referee Declares Adesanya vs. Gastelum Fight as the Best He’s Ever Officiated
Veteran UFC referee Marc Goddard has called the thrilling middleweight showdown between Israel Adesanya and Kelvin Gastelum the best fight he has ever officiated.
In an interview with talkSPORT MMA, Goddard highlighted the co-main event of UFC 236 in Atlanta as his most unforgettable experience in the Octagon.
Having overseen numerous iconic matches, the British official described the interim middleweight title bout as an “ungodly” exhibition of skill and determination.
“Without a doubt, it’s Adesanya against Gastelum for me,” Goddard said when asked to choose his top fight. “I was in awe of what was unfolding before my eyes.”
He recounted being particularly moved by the fighters’ relentless spirit, especially when Adesanya famously declared, “I’m prepared to die,” just before the final round.
“Both fighters were at their limits, refusing to back down,” Goddard explained. “They ventured into the deepest parts of themselves during that fight, and I was right there with them.”
Goddard admitted that the fight’s intensity left a profound mark on him, saying, “I’ve even shed tears watching it again because what those fighters displayed was extraordinary.”
Adesanya ultimately claimed victory by unanimous decision in what many consider one of the greatest fights in UFC history, and Goddard’s heartfelt reflections only enhance its legendary reputation in the sport.
