UFC exec Marc Ratner explains why promotion will not implement open scoring

LAS VEGAS – UFC vice president of regulatory affairs Marc Ratner is not a fan of open scoring, and does not want to see the promotion implement its use.

The topic of open scoring has been often discussed in MMA circles recently. Many believe it would be beneficial to the fighters and the fans at home to know the score of the fight at all times, especially before the final round of what seems to be a close fight.

The UFC Hall of Famer Ratner has been one of the most significant figures behind the scenes of MMA, helping mold the sport into what we know it as today. He understands the argument for why some people want open scoring, but he’s not on board with it as he believes it would eliminate a moment of suspense and anticipation after fights conclude.

“I still do not endorse open scoring,” Ratner told MMA Junkie Radio at SEI CON. “I think that’s a path that I and the UFC, we feel strongly about not having it. So, I’m still an advocate for that.

“… The most exciting part, whether it be boxing or MMA, is after a title fight and we go to a decision, and you’re waiting for Michael or Bruce Buffer to say – you’re sitting in your seat, sitting on the edge saying either ‘new’ or ‘still.’ I would hate to lose that moment.”

In some cases, Ratner would be correct if a perceived close fight was not seen as such on the scorecards. However, if a title fight was tied going into the final round, and all parties knew, that moment would still exist if the fight reached the final horn.

The fighter down on the cards would know they have to press even harder in the final round to get their hand raised. In most cases, this is something that is already perceived, especially if the fighter’s corner is being honest.

On the other hand, what would happen when a fighter knows for certain they can afford to lose the final round on the scorecards?

“We tried it 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’s ahead after four rounds in a five-round fight, he might get 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 of each side of the argument were present to varying degrees.

For Ratner, the simple solution would be to never let off the gas and fight hard until there is no more time on the clock. For the fans at home that 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 it is, and say you’re losing,” Ratner said. “It’s up to you now. Get your fighter to fight and not take it for granted. Don’t leave it to the judges. That’s my philosophy there.”