Mario Yamasaki was heavily criticized after the flyweight bout between Valentina Shevchenko and Priscila Cachoeira for not stopping the fight sooner and allowing “Pedrita” to take unnecessary damage. Cachoeira was submitted in the second round.

In a statement sent to MMA Fighting on Monday night, the Brazilian referee responded to the criticism, admitting that he could have stopped the fight on several occasions - when Shevchenko had the mount and also the second time Cachoeira was trapped in a crucifix. He also discussed the criticism he’s received online, including Dana White’s Instagram post.

Check the full statement below.