UFC Judge Howie Booth delivered a 30-27 scorecard in favor of Tai Tuivasa, despite Tuivasa being clearly outclassed by Jairzinho Rozenstruik in one of UFC 305’s most anticipated bouts. Booth’s decision sharply contrasted with the other two judges, who correctly scored the fight in Rozenstruik’s favor. As a result, Booth was swiftly removed from his judging duties for the night, specifically for the co-main event between Steve Erceg and Kai Kara-France. Fortunately, his services weren’t needed, as Kara-France secured a spectacular first-round knockout of the former title contender.
Fans outraged by the decision in Jairzinho Rozenstruik vs. Tai Tuivasa fight
The highly anticipated clash between heavy hitters Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Tai Tuivasa was expected to end in a knockout, given both fighters’ reputations for finishing their bouts decisively. However, the fight went the full three rounds, and by the time the final bell rang, it seemed clear to most that Rozenstruik, the away fighter, had done enough to secure the victory.
When the scorecards were announced by Bruce Buffer, fans were shocked to hear that one judge, Howie Booth, had scored the fight 30-27 in favor of Tuivasa. This decision was puzzling to many, as the general consensus was that Rozenstruik had dominated the fight, a view reflected in David Lethaby’s more accurate scorecard. The 30-27 score in Tuivasa’s favor was seen as egregious, with fans expressing disbelief and outrage at what they considered a baffling and incorrect decision.
Social media quickly lit up with fans voicing their frustration, with one user calling it “one of the worst cards in memory.” The widespread discontent resonated with the commission in Perth, who promptly removed Booth from his judging duties for the remainder of the event, including the night’s co-main event.
UFC Judge Howie Booth removed from his duties at UFC 305
A decision was quickly made behind the scenes to remove Judge Howie Booth from his position at UFC 305 following his controversial scoring of the Rozenstruik vs. Tuivasa fight. Initially reported by Kevin Iole, it was decided that Booth would be “done for the night” after such a questionable call.
Jon Anik later confirmed Booth’s removal during the broadcast, announcing that Booth would no longer judge the co-main event. Fans largely saw this decision as justified, responding with humor and approval after Booth’s widely criticized scorecard.
Although Booth’s other assignment of the night was less controversial, he was the only judge to award Ricky Glenn a round in his loss to Song Kenan. David Shaw, UFC Senior Vice President of International and Content, emphasized that the Western Australian Combat Sports Commission, which oversees the event, was responsible for such decisions.
Shaw added that someone likely decided Booth’s performance didn’t warrant his continued involvement for the rest of the night, reinforcing the importance of maintaining high standards. He noted that if someone isn’t performing their job well, taking time to reflect and improve is a good principle to follow in any profession.
Jairzinho Rozenstruik responds after UFC 305 judge is pulled from event mid-show
Rozenstruik, who was taking a big risk in his fight against Tuivasa as he aims to climb the UFC’s heavyweight rankings, also thought the scorecard was outrageous. However, he appreciated how quickly the situation was addressed.
“That was crazy,” Rozenstruik said after the fight, joking that “It might be a judge from Australia, but it’s fine.”
When told that Booth had been removed from the rest of the event, Rozenstruik responded simply, “He better [be].”