Marc Goddard Explains Point Deduction for Christian Leroy Duncan Eye Poke

Veteran referee Marc Goddard has explained his decision to deduct a point from Christian Leroy Duncan for an eye poke during the UFC Vegas 122 main event on Saturday at the Meta Apex in Las Vegas. Duncan was penalized in the second round of his matchup against Brendan Allen, drawing attention from observers as referees rarely deduct points on a first infraction.

The penalty ultimately did not alter the fight's outcome, as Allen went on to submit Duncan with a rear-naked choke in the final round. Following the bout, Goddard took to social media to provide clarity on the sequence of events leading up to the point deduction, calling it a teachable moment for the sport.

Goddard stated that officials review the rules backstage prior to every bout, specifically covering eye pokes and outstretched fingers. During the contest, Goddard warned Duncan in the opening round about extending his fingers toward Allen's face, and he reiterated that warning before the second round began. When Duncan committed the eye poke shortly thereafter, Goddard took immediate action by taking a point.

While praising Duncan as an exceptional athlete and a credit to MMA, Goddard emphasized that addressing and fixing eye pokes remains a firm priority for officials, noting the mechanical challenges involved in both preventative and corrective measures.