# UFC Vegas 123 officiating controversy

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ufc-vegas-123-officiating-controversy
> Updated: 2026-11-04T22:59:51.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

A controversy emerged following the UFC Vegas 123 lightweight main event involving referee Dan Miragliotta. During the bout, Miragliotta stood up fighters Renato Moicano and Tom Nolan while Moicano was attempting a rear-naked choke. Shortly after the intervention, Nolan landed strikes that resulted in a TKO victory. 

Joe Rogan criticized the decision, reportedly messaging Daniel Cormier that “It’s not a sport if refs can do that.” While some spectators viewed the decision as creating an exciting finish, Moicano later criticized the officiating.

UFC CEO Dana White defended the referee, stating that rules require fighters to actively pursue damage or position advancement. White noted that elite grapplers may sometimes ride out rounds without attempting a finish, which can warrant a stand-up under current regulations. Moicano later indicated on social media that he would not appeal the result, admitting he failed to produce sufficient damage or overcome Nolan’s defense.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-04: Dana White defends referee decision in Moicano vs. Nolan fight

UFC CEO Dana White defended referee Dan Miragliotta after a controversial stand-up during the Moicano vs. Nolan main event led to a TKO loss for Renato Moicano.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dana-white-defends-referee-decision-in-moicano-vs-nolan-fight

### 2026-11-02: Joe Rogan criticizes refereeing decision at UFC Vegas 123

Joe Rogan criticized referee Dan Miragliotta after a controversial standup call during the UFC Vegas 123 main event between Renato Moicano and Tom Nolan.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/joe-rogan-criticizes-refereeing-decision-at-ufc-vegas-123

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Cite as: UFC Vegas 123 officiating controversy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ufc-vegas-123-officiating-controversy