Din Thomas apologizes to Gillian Robertson for his ‘despicable’ decision to retire at UFC 330

Din Thomas has publicly apologized to Gillian Robertson after announcing his retirement from cornering fighters immediately following her UFC 330 co-main-event loss to Mackenzie Dern on Saturday night.

Thomas, a respected former fighter and current analyst for the UFC's Deep Waters YouTube show, had worked Robertson's corner during her strawweight title bid. After Robertson fell short in a decision loss, Thomas announced during the post-fight show that he was stepping away from cornering—a move widely viewed as disrespectful timing that overshadowed Robertson's performance. On Monday, Thomas addressed the controversy at the top of his show, delivering an emotional apology to the fighter he has mentored throughout her entire seven-year career.

"I was completely irresponsible," Thomas said, calling his decision "despicable." He explained that he should have waited for a more appropriate moment to discuss his burnout rather than stealing Robertson's spotlight immediately after a tough loss. "I stole her moment," he acknowledged, noting that Robertson had been on an impressive run that included winning five consecutive fights and earning a title opportunity—achievements he felt deserved better recognition than what he provided Saturday night.

Thomas reflected on their long partnership, recalling Robertson's previous requests to win consecutive bouts and her determination throughout their years together. "This is a young lady that I've worked with for her entire career," he said, expressing shame and embarrassment over his actions. He assured Robertson of his continued support, emphasizing that the incident does not mark the end of their professional relationship.

While taking full responsibility, Thomas explained that he was emotionally struggling—heartbroken over the loss and frustrated with the demands of simultaneously cornering and providing objective analysis on air. Still, he maintained that these circumstances did not justify his behavior or the timing of his announcement.