Under no circumstances is it okay for an athlete to put his or her hands on an official in any sport. During the UFC 192: Cormier vs. Gustafsson preliminary bouts that aired on UFC Fight Pass, Francisco Trevino pushed referee Herb Dean in protest of what he felt was an early stoppage.
Trevino was absorbing unanswered punches from UFC newcomer Sage Northcutt, while turtled up on the ground when Dean stopped the fight. Trevino quickly stood on wobbly legs and pushed Dean while hurling expletives. His actions will likely draw a fine and a suspension.
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“Never is it acceptable to put your hands on an official, UFC staff members, or anybody not associated with the action inside the Octagon other than our opponent,” said UFC Vice President of Public Relations Dave Sholler during the post-fight press conference.
The fight promotion will review the incident early next week to determine what disciplinary action to take, and the Texan also faces consequences from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which governs mixed martial arts in The Lone Star State.
“It’s unfortunate that it happened,” said Sholler. “I know he was frustrated that he missed weight, and then obviously got overwhelmed by Sage. We’ll regroup on Monday as we always do on disciplinary-type actions, but it’s just completely unacceptable. The commission will also have a say on that.”
