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MMA Officials Move to Strictly Enforce Eye-Poke Rule With Proactive Point Deductions

Referees plan immediate penalties for extended fingers following the AspinallGane no-contest.

Overview

  • Veteran referee Herb Dean said the rule against extending fingers toward an opponent’s eyes already exists but has not been consistently enforced.
  • Dean indicated officials intend to begin deducting points for the dangerous action before an eye injury occurs.
  • Commission and referee meetings have taken place to coordinate the approach, with additional sessions expected.
  • New written guidance is being drafted to clarify what constitutes the foul, including “fingers up” and pawing at range.
  • Outlets report no firm timeline or finalized implementation plan for the stricter enforcement yet.