UFC Hire British Referees - MMAUniverse.com

Two referees from the UK are to start officiating for the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Marc Goddard and Leon Roberts will be the first British referees to oversee the action in the octagon.

Marc Goddard announced the news in a statement on the cagewarriors.com forum. He also made it known that he his ending his fighting career:

“I am now completely 100% retired from active MMA competition. I have enjoyed mixed success over the years and owe thanks to a whole host of different people, too many to name without fear of forgetting anyone.

I can not wait to take up 100% committed to my refereeing and coaching role in helping others. I will still obviously be teaching, training and compete actively with sub grappling.

From 18th October onwards I will be refereeing at UFC events and I am both deeply honoured and feel real achievement.

I never said or set out to be the best 205lb fighter in the world but rest assured I will be setting my stall well and truly out to prove to be the best MMA ref in the world; this is something I know I can and will be without a doubt.

Even more good news is that I am not alone, as it was confirmed last week that my good friend Leon Roberts will be joining me as the second British representative as a referee. When ever I have been unable to make a show I have always asked Leon to step in for me and I think that he has proved just how good he is and I was so glad when I learned that the UFC had picked Leon too. I am both excited and thrilled for us both and we aim to show just what we are made of.

I have met some real gems in this game and will continue to do so no doubt I really look forward to the future and seeing you all out there and the stars of the game coming through as well as the sport developing here as it should.

Obviously in light of the weekends events I had wished to make this announcement in happier times but that just goes to show that you never know what’s coming next, that’s why I will be taking this opportunity with both firm hands !

Thank you to all that wish me well.

Sorry if I have been long winded. Love to you all; see you in the cage - peace, Marc”.