Imagine leaving a successful career to return to something you truly love, even if it means less money and a completely different path. That's exactly what "Big" John McCarthy, a legendary figure in the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), has done. He's hanging up his microphone and stepping back into the cage, not as a commentator, but as a referee.
After nearly seven years away from officiating, McCarthy is making a comeback. He'd been a familiar face and voice on Bellator and later Professional Fighters League (PFL) broadcasts, alongside co-hosting the popular "Weighing-In" podcast. But the allure of being inside the action proved too strong.
McCarthy's decision wasn't driven by financial gain, he told MMA Junkie Radio. "I hear everyone say, 'Oh, it's about money,' and I'm like, 'Money? That's hysterical.' I'm going back to what's not money, but it's what I love doing." He emphasized that his initial departure from refereeing in 2018 wasn't a retirement, but a necessary step due to severe neck issues. Multiple surgeries were required, and he felt he couldn't perform his refereeing duties to the best of his ability.
Bellator, under Scott Coker, offered him a broadcasting role, allowing him to stay connected to the sport he loves. McCarthy always intended to return to refereeing if his health allowed. And now, he feels physically ready. "I love active refereeing, I love the judging, and everything officiating."
But here's where it gets controversial... Some people might question whether someone who's been away from actively refereeing for so long can immediately return to form. Refereeing requires split-second decisions and a deep understanding of the evolving rules and techniques in MMA. Can McCarthy seamlessly transition back into that high-pressure environment?
McCarthy has already dipped his toes back in the water, refereeing a Reality Fighting event in Connecticut earlier this month. He described it as feeling like he'd never left, adding that he wasn't nervous and everything felt natural. He's even been requested to referee a Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) event in California, showcasing the demand for his experience and expertise.
For McCarthy, it's about enjoying life and pursuing his passions while he still can. He's aware that there will come a time when he can no longer perform at the level he expects of himself, and he's prepared to walk away then.
And this is the part most people miss... McCarthy's return to refereeing necessitates some significant changes. He's stepped away from his role in PFL broadcasts and, crucially, has ended his involvement with the "Weighing-In" podcast. He explained that analyzing fighters and fights is incompatible with his role as a referee. He can't be in a position where he's publicly critiquing fighters he might be officiating in the future. This is a crucial element of maintaining impartiality and avoiding any perceived bias.
This decision raises some interesting questions. Is it truly impossible to objectively analyze fights and fighters while also being a referee? Some might argue that a referee's analytical skills, honed through commentary, could actually enhance their ability to make informed decisions in the heat of the moment. What do you think? Is McCarthy right to step away from media, or could he have found a way to balance both roles? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
