UFC ref criticised for not protecting fighter after KO
A UFC referee has once again come in for criticism after failing to protect a fighter who was knocked out when she turned her back on her opponent during UFC Fight Night in Canada.
Valerie Letourneau broke the cardinal rule of combat sports and didn’t protect herself after she was stung by a body shot from Joanne Calderwood during the third round.
The Canadian lightweight turned away from her opponent clutching at her side, allowing Calderwood to hit her with a kick.
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As the referee tried to rush in and intervene, Calderwood landed a spinning back fist that knocked Letourneau out.
The victory is a big boost to Calderwood as she looks to become a contender for the UFC strawweight title.
