Herb Dean Net Worth: Success in MMA (2023)
Herb Dean’s Net Worth - $2.5 Million
Herb Dean has an estimated net worth of $2.5 million, primarily built through his career as a retired MMA fighter, UFC referee, and occasional actor. With over 3500 MMA matches overseen, Dean has cemented his reputation as one of the most experienced and respected UFC referees in the industry. His annual earnings from refereeing duties are reportedly around $500,000 per year.
Herb Dean’s Rise to Fame as a UFC Referee
Born in Pasadena, California, in 1970, Herb Dean began his martial arts training at the age of nine. During his teenage years, he trained under Frank Trejo and expanded his skills to include jiu-jitsu and judo.
In the year 1996, he encountered combatant Larry Landless, who acquainted him with the world of MMA instruction at the Submission Factory situated in Los Angeles. Dean transitioned from an MMA fighter to a referee in the early 2000s and quickly became a sought-after official in the UFC.
Over the years, Dean has provided consistent and reliable officiating, making decisive and fair calls that have earned him the respect of both fighters and fans. Some of his most notable matches include UFC 48 in 2004 and UFC 70 in 2007. He was awarded Fighters Only Magazine’s World MMA Awards Referee of the Year title for five consecutive years from 2010 to 2014 and later in 2019 and 2020.
Herb Dean’s Controversial Calls: How They Affect His Reputation
Despite his accolades and years of experience, Dean has faced controversies over some of his calls. Notable examples include UFC 169, where his stoppage of a fight between Urijah Faber and Renan Barão for the UFC Bantamweight title was heavily criticized. Similarly, UFC Fight Night: Hunt vs. Oleinik showed Dean’s late stoppage of a match between C.B. Dollaway and Khalid Murtazaliev, sparking criticism from the MMA community.
Such controversial calls, however, have not significantly impacted his overall reputation, as Dean continues to be regarded as one of the top referees in the sport.
How Much Does Herb Dean Make Per Fight? A Closer Look at His Salary
Herb Dean’s earnings vary depending on the type of match he officiates. For main card matches, he earns approximately $1,500, while high-profile fights can bring in between $10,000 and $15,000. With an annual salary of $500,000, coupled with other income sources, such as acting or providing MMA referee certification courses, Dean’s current financial status is an indicator of his successful career.
Herb Dean’s Personal Life and Other Ventures: Life Outside the Octagon
Apart from his career in the UFC, Dean has ventured into both acting and teaching. He had cameo appearances in films like “Here Comes the Boom” and “A Violent Man.” Moreover, he offers official MMA certification courses to aspiring referees and judges, covering topics like ABC Unified Rules, judging guidelines, and scoring criteria.
Together with his wife, Victoria, and their two children, Ashanta and Quinn, Dean enjoys a comfortable and fulfilling life outside the Octagon. The family currently resides in the Los Angeles area.
Herb Dean’s net worth of $2.5 million is a testament to his successful career both inside and outside the Octagon. As an experienced and skilled referee, his earnings and life achievements justify the respect and admiration he receives from the MMA community.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money does Herb Dean make per fight?
Herb Dean reportedly makes around $1,500 per main card match, and his earnings for high-profile fights can range from $10,000 to $15,000.
What does a UFC referee get paid?
The base salary for a UFC referee varies depending on their level of experience and the number of matches officiated, but it can range from $30,000 to $500,000 per year. Per match fees can range from $250 to $2,500, with additional earnings for high-profile main event fights.
How much does John McCarthy make?
John McCarthy, another well-known MMA referee, has an estimated net worth of $1 million. His annual earnings and per-fight fees have not been publicly disclosed.
How much is Dana White’s net worth?
Dana White, the UFC President, has a net worth of approximately $500 million.
