By Jeff Zimmerman
Fightnews.com® sat down with (3) veterans of combat sports, HOF referees Kenny Bayless and Robert Byrd plus top UFC / MMA ref Mark Smith, to discuss a new show they are putting together which will give a behind the scenes look of their sport from a referee’s point of view that will include a mix of highlights, education and interviews with celebrities and analysts. Here we discussed several topics including their background and mentors, cross-over fights and the challenges of being the 3rd man in the ring/cage and making the right call when the lights are brightest and much more with these three great combat sports referees.
Kenny Bayless and Bob Byrd truly some of the greatest referees ever. I wish them great luck in their endeavors.
Robert Byrd reffed one of fights back in the day. Very nice guy.
Hopefully he talks about why he never penalizes fighters for clinching and why he doesn’t allow fighters to fight inside when they have one arm free. Also, it would be interesting to hear how he was able to spend the last part of Floyd’s career as Floyd’s personal pocket referee.