LAS VEGAS – UFC Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Marc Ratner is not a fan of open scoring and does not want the promotion to implement its use.
The topic of open scoring has been frequently discussed in MMA circles recently. Many believe that it would be beneficial for the fighters and the fans at home to know the score of the fight at all times, especially before the final round of what appears to be a close fight.
Ratner, a member of the UFC Hall of Fame, has been one of the most influential behind-the-scenes figures in MMA, helping to shape the sport into what we know it as today. He understands the argument behind why some people want an open scorecard, but he doesn’t agree with it, as he believes it would eliminate a moment of suspense and anticipation after the fights are over.
“I still don’t support open scoring,” Ratner told MMA Junkie Radio at SEI CON. “I think it is a path that the UFC and I have, we are very convinced that we do not have it. So I’m still an advocate for that.
“… The most exciting part, whether in boxing or MMA, is after the title fight and we make a decision, and you’re waiting for Michael or Bruce Buffer to say – you’re sitting in your seat, sitting on the edge saying ‘new’ or ‘still’. I would hate to miss this moment.”
In some cases, Ratner would be correct if a perceived close fight was not seen as such on the scorecards. However, if the title fight was tied in the final round, and all parties knew, that moment would still exist if the fight went to the end.
The fighter who is on the cards will know that he will have to press even harder in the final round to raise his hand. In most cases, this is something that is already noticed, especially if the fighter’s singing is honest.
On the other hand, what would happen when a fighter was certain that he could lose the final round on the scorecards?
“We tried that in boxing,” Ratner explained. “We had a 10-round fight. After seven, the guy knew he was winning, he started running. Now we’re talking about a three-round fight. … A three-round fight or a five-round fight, that’s what we do, and if you know your fighter is ahead after four rounds in a five-round fight, he can get down on the ground and hold the guy down if he can . ”
Some MMA promotions have tried open scoring. Invicta FC has implemented it in the past, and elements from each side of the argument have been present to varying degrees.
For Ratner, the simple solution would be to never let go of the accelerator and fight hard until there is no more time on the clock. For home fans who want to see the biggest promotion in the world use open scoring, don’t hold your breath.
“I would tell every cornerman, pretend it’s tied, whatever you think, and tell them they’re losing,” Ratner said. “Now it’s up to you. Make your fighter fight and don’t take it for granted. Don’t leave it to the judges. That’s my philosophy.”
