UFC Referee Mark Smith Carried Out With ACL Injury at UFC 324
In a shocking moment at UFC 324, veteran referee Mark Smith had to be carried out of the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas during Saturday night's event, leaving fans deeply concerned. The confusion surrounding his condition has now been clarified by UFC President Dana White, who confirmed that Smith sustained an ACL injury while officiating inside the octagon.
Dramatic Exit and Fan Worry
The incident occurred after Smith finished refereeing the full 15-minute bout between Ateba Gautier and Andrey Pulyaev. While both fighters emerged without significant damage, Smith was visibly in pain, limping badly and requiring assistance from medical staff. Videos circulating among fans showed one medic holding Smith's shoe separately, leading many to speculate about a foot injury. However, Dana White later addressed this misconception, stating clearly that the issue was an ACL problem, not related to his foot.
Mark Smith's Long Career and the Fight Details
Mark Smith, aged 52, is one of the most experienced officials in mixed martial arts, having refereed his 884th MMA fight at this event. The bout between Gautier and Pulyaev concluded with a decision win for Gautier, described as a calm contest without major cuts or knockdowns. Despite the fight's relatively uneventful nature, Smith's struggle to walk as it ended became a focal point, with medical personnel quickly helping him exit the octagon area.
Smith's Response and Other Medical Incidents
Smith has not publicly disclosed how the injury occurred, but he shared a positive message on his Instagram story, writing: "Always end the day with a positive thought. No matter how hard the day may have been, there is always a reason to be grateful." He was not the only individual requiring medical attention that night. British fighter Paddy Pimblett was also rushed to the hospital after a tough loss to Justin Gaethje, marking Pimblett's first UFC defeat.
Paddy Pimblett's Fight and Outcome
Paddy Pimblett, 31, faced a challenging five-round battle against 37-year-old Justin Gaethje, who won on points and claimed the interim lightweight title. Pimblett was knocked down three times during the fight, contradicting his pre-fight statement that "Scousers don't get knocked out." Despite showing resilience, the accumulated damage led to judges scoring the fight 48-47, 49-46, and 49-46 in Gaethje's favor. Pimblett was taken to the hospital bruised and bleeding but remained conscious, applauding as Gaethje celebrated his victory.
Smith received prompt medical care after being removed from the arena, highlighting the physical risks even officials face in high-intensity sports like UFC. This incident underscores the unpredictability and demands of professional mixed martial arts events.
