Dana White Addresses Controversial Stand-up at UFC Halloween

During the UFC Halloween main event on October 31, 2026, referee Dan Miragliotta ordered Renato Moicano and Tom Nolan back to their feet while Moicano held a body triangle and back control. Following the restart, Nolan secured a third-round technical knockout victory. The decision drew significant criticism from fans and the broadcast team, who classified the intervention as a referee error.

Dana White stated that the UFC has not yet formally discussed the incident. Addressing the criteria for stand-ups, White noted that holding a dominant position does not guarantee immunity from being stood up. He emphasized that referees look for evidence of damage, progression, or attempts to finish the fight, stating that fighters cannot simply ride out a position.

Renato Moicano expressed surprise at the stand-up, noting he received no prior warning and had not previously seen a fighter stood up from back control. Despite his frustration, Moicano admitted to a poor performance, acknowledging his failure to deal damage or bypass Nolan's defense. Moicano confirmed he will not appeal the result or pursue disciplinary action.