‘Big’ John McCarthy Appointed Referee Of UFC On Fox: Velasquez Vs. Dos Santos Main Event

The biggest stage in mixed martial arts history has tapped the sport's most celebrated referee. According to reports by MMA Junkie, "Big" John McCarthy will oversee the main event of UFC on Fox on November 12th which features a heavyweight championship bout between Cain Velasquez and Junior dos Santos.

"The UFC has been informed that there is a 99 percent chance that John McCarthy will be in the cage for the main event," confirmed California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) Executive Officer George Dodd.

McCarthy, a leading figure in the early days of the UFC, served as the organization's first head referee and pushed for institution of referee stoppages if a fighter is unable to intelligently defend themselves. The former Los Angeles Police Department officer briefly retired in late-2007 but eventually returned to the promotion in 2010. McCarthy is well known for his pre-fight catch phrase "Let's get it on!", of which he shares a trademark with boxing referee Mills Lane.

While some may applaud the decision of the CSAC, there is surely one individual who was not as pleased to hear the news. UFC President Dana White has publicly feuded with the referee in the past and stated in September that he hoped Herb Dean would be awarded the spot. On numerous occasions White has referred to Dean as "the best referee in the business".