Did you hit or not hit? Referee explains alleged 'tapping' by Jiri Prochazka against Glover Teixeira at UFC 275

G. Teixeira and J. Prochazka led a 'war' in UFC 275 (Photo: Instagram/UFC Canada)

Last Saturday (11), in the main fight of UFC 275, Jiri Prochazka became the new UFC light heavyweight champion (up to 93 kg) by finishing Glover Teixeira with less than 30 seconds left until the end of the duel. The result, however, did not come without a small dose of controversy. Some fans pointed out alleged “withdrawal slaps” from the Czech during moments of the Brazilian’s dominance in the ground fight.

Asked about what happened, Marc Goddard, the referee responsible for the fight, took to social media and clarified the situation. For him, Prochazka's action was aimed at “congratulating and encouraging” Glover, and not giving up the fight.

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"Laughter. Jiri was actually congratulating and encouraging his opponent! He did this a few times and I said it was a risky game, lol! But his intention was very clear. Let’s celebrate this incredible fight between the two knights”, explained Goddard.

Jiri Prochazka he was not asked nor did he speak out about the supposed “slaps” during the press conference held after the event, but he admitted that he was playing “mind games” with Glover Teixeira, speaking to the Brazilian during the fight. Glover, in turn, also made no mention of an alleged withdrawal by his opponent.