What Happened to UFC Referee Big John McCarthy?

By Ali Hammad March 21, 2024 05:24

John McCarthy, best known as "Big John," is a retired American mixed martial arts referee who left a lasting impact on the world of mixed martial arts (MMA).

From his influential role in shaping the rules of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) to his transition from referee to commentator, McCarthy's journey is a testament to his significant contributions to the sport.

Early Career and Influence on UFC Rules

McCarthy's involvement in the UFC began in 1993 when he served as the referee for UFC 2.

At that time, the UFC had very few rules, prompting McCarthy to advocate for additional regulations to ensure the safety of the fighters.

His efforts led to the implementation of various rules, including referee stoppages when a fighter could not intelligently defend themselves, significantly impacting the evolution of UFC rules.

Retirement from UFC Refereeing and Transition to Bellator

After officiating over 500 events for the UFC, McCarthy retired from UFC refereeing in 2018.

Following his retirement, he transitioned to Bellator as a commentator, further establishing his presence in the MMA community.

Autobiography and Media Appearances

In 2011, McCarthy's autobiography, "Let's Get It On - The Making of MMA and its Ultimate Referee," was published, providing insights into his journey and contributions to MMA.

Also, he made cameo appearances in popular TV shows and films, such as "Friends," "Bully Beatdown," and "Entourage," further solidifying his iconic status within the MMA community.

Unlikely Encounter and Injury

In a surprising turn of events, McCarthy found himself in an unexpected battle against an unlikely opponent - a tree.

This incident resulted in him sustaining serious injuries, including six broken ribs and a punctured lung.

Despite the challenges, McCarthy bravely shared the details of the incident and his road to recovery, showcasing his resilience and determination.

Transition to Broadcasting and Podcasting

While McCarthy briefly pursued a career as a commentator in 2007 before returning to refereeing, he eventually transitioned to broadcasting in 2017.

Alongside former world champion Josh “The Punk” Thomson, he co-hosts the "Weighing In" podcast, where they offer diverse perspectives on MMA, share historical insights, and interview prominent figures in the fighting world, garnering a substantial following.

Influence and Expertise

McCarthy's extensive experience and influence extend beyond his role as a referee, as evidenced by his critical analysis of MMA matches.

With his deep understanding of the sport, he provides valuable insights and commentary, contributing to the broader discourse within the MMA community.

All in all

John McCarthy's journey from being a pivotal figure in the development of UFC rules to his transition into broadcasting and podcasting reflects his enduring impact on the world of mixed martial arts.

His resilience in the face of unexpected challenges and his continuous contributions to the sport underscore his lasting legacy as "Big John," an icon in the MMA community.