neil hall
There is not much more I can add to the outpouring of tributes in relation to the passing this week of the much-loved character and pioneer of the UK MMA scene, Neil Hall.
For those that don’t know Neil, he’s been involved in many facets of the MMA industry, but he’s wider known to many as the third man in the cage.
I crossed paths many times with Neil at events up and down the county over the last 10 years as well as joining him on various educational courses. Neil was a gritty northerner who at first, I would find intimidating. The opposite was, however, truer. A gentle soul who reached the top of his profession becoming a referee at many UFC events.
Neil joined the IMMAF group of officials along with his lovely wife Kath who was a time keeper at the 2015 IMMAF European Championships, held in Birmingham, UK. Neil forged many new relationships with other officials from across the world at this event.
One of the great things about IMMAF, is the family style relationships that are made. It’s clear to see from the tributes this week, that Neil had touched many people far and wide.
Not many people reading this will know of one memory that will always stay with me.
Neil was the referee at my first MMA bout, way back in 2010. RIP mate.
