In footage that has emerged on social media, leading MMA referee Marc Goddard can be seen sharing a heartwarming exchange with former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya.
The video, recorded backstage at UFC 312 in Sydney on Saturday, was shared by Adesanya over the weekend and sees Goddard offer his condolences to "The Last Stylebender", who was KO'd by Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia earlier this month in a fight that Goddard refereed.
Adesanya discusses the stoppage against Imavov, and also mentions another occassion Goddard stopped one of his fights against Alex Pereira at UFC 281 in Madison Square Garden.
"Hey, I'll tell you one thing", Adesanya can be heard saying to Goddard, "the one in New York, I was like "ehhh", but this (against Imavov) was good. You know why? I wasn't there. I was moving but it was all instincts".
Goddard shared the clip on his X account and praised the respectful behaviour shown by Adesanya.
"The things that people don't see!", wrote Goddard. "I don't know what to say right now...but I'd like to thank "Stylebender" wholeheartedly for sharing this moment, and i think it is Israel's brother who is recording. For a certified Hall of Famer and one of the true GOATsof the sport to share this and show this side of character & humility is amazing and it means a lot to me.
"On the cusp of having his fight with Kelvin Gastelum rightfully immortalised in the UFC Hall of Fame, a fight that shall ever be in my heart & mind, this is extra special. As with so many things in MMA the moments that aren't seen, heard annd felt forever remain. I have raised Izzy's hand 3 times as a world champion but one of the cruel realities of this sport is that (sadly) sometimes there is another victor.
"25 years in MMA, 20 of those as referee and there is still magical moments like this to keep the fire burning. My primary role is to protect & I want to thank each & every person who can understand & respect that.
"Israel you have my respect & admiration as a man & a champion. God bless".
