Din Thomas Apologizes for Irresponsible Corner Retirement Announcement After UFC 330

Din Thomas has offered an apology following significant criticism from the MMA community after UFC 330. Thomas, a respected head coach, faced backlash after his fighter, Gillian Robertson, lost her bid for the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship to Mackenzie Dern. Shortly after the fight, Thomas declared he would no longer corner fighters.

The timing of his announcement drew sharp criticism from fans, fellow fighters, and even UFC commentator Jon Anik. Some also took issue with Thomas's apparent suggestion that Robertson had reached her peak in the Octagon.

Addressing the controversy on the "Deep Waters" show on Paramount+, Thomas admitted his mistake. "I took on Gillian, and I have to say, Saturday night was the most inappropriate time to bring up the fact that I did not want to corner again," Thomas stated. "It was completely irresponsible. It was despicable. I shouldn’t have done it. I should’ve waited until maybe even today. I should’ve waited until a different time than take away her moment. This is a young lady that I’ve worked with her entire career."

The former American Top Team coach revealed that he had contemplated retiring from cornering after Jake Paul's knockout victory over Tyron Woodley in their boxing rematch in late 2021. MMA fighter Jorge Masvidal, also present on the "Deep Waters" show, corroborated Thomas's account.

The future coaching situation for Robertson remains uncertain. "The Savage" had been enjoying a strong run of form, with a five-fight win streak leading up to her bout with Dern. While her recent performance has earned praise, she will now need to find a new head cornerman.

Translation to English:

Din Thomas has apologized amid strong backlash from the MMA community following UFC 330. Thomas, who has been highly regarded as a head coach, came under fire after his fighter, Gillian Robertson, was unsuccessful in her bid to win the UFC Women’s Strawweight Championship, losing to Mackenzie Dern. After the event, Thomas announced he was retiring from cornering fighters.

The timing of his announcement was criticized by many fans, fighters, and UFC play-by-play announcer Jon Anik. Thomas also drew criticism for comments that some interpreted as him suggesting Robertson had peaked in her Octagon career.

Thomas addressed the situation on Paramount+'s "Deep Waters," admitting he made an error on Saturday. "I took on Gillian, and I have to say, Saturday night was the most inappropriate time to bring up the fact that I did not want to corner again," Thomas said. "It was completely irresponsible. It was despicable. I shouldn’t have done it. I should’ve waited until maybe even today. I should’ve waited until a different time than take away her moment. This is a young lady that I’ve worked with her entire career."

The former American Top Team standout also mentioned that he had considered stopping cornering fighters after Jake Paul knocked out Tyron Woodley in their boxing rematch in late 2021. MMA veteran Jorge Masvidal, who was also on the "Deep Waters" show, supported Thomas's statement.

It remains to be seen what lies ahead for Robertson. "The Savage" had been experiencing a career resurgence, with a five-fight winning streak prior to her fight with Dern. Robertson has received praise for her turnaround, but she will require a new lead cornerman moving forward.