About Us
COMMAND is an Internationally recognized training school for Referees and Judges in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). It was established by one of MMA's founding figures, the legendary Big John McCarthy, and is taught alongside industry experts Jerin Valel, Ron McCarthy, and Jason Herzog. These intensive two and three-day training courses are officially recognized by the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC), the regulatory body overseeing all commissions in North America. For more information on how, when, and where we conduct our courses, please be sure to check our FAQ page.

Types of Courses & Curriculum - Learn to be an MMA Official
Courses:
Certification Information for Hybrid Referee/Judge Course: ($2500.00 for a 3-Day Course)
This three-day course is designed to train participants about how to become both a Mixed Martial Arts Referee and Judge. Often, referees are required to work as a judge by an Athletic Commission, so it is essential for those seeking to be a referee to take both courses. The course is an incredible experience for anyone interested in learning exactly what a referee is looking at and how they determine what they are going to do in any given situation.
The course covers the Unified Rules and practical applications of referee skills, including pre-fight meetings, cage control and knowledge, rule implementation, fundamental skills application, and other fight day requirements. It also covers everything in the judging course.
Participants must be in good physical condition to participate in the Referee course. Before you come to the class, please be sure to familiarize yourself with the techniques listed on our site.
Everyone receives a certificate of participation. If you wish to be certified, you must test and pass the course with a 90% completion rate. Testing is only for those who desire to be an official, as it is one of the requirements needed to be licensed with a State, Tribal, or Provincial Athletic Commission.
Certification Information for Judges: ($2000.000 for a 2-Day Course)
This two-day course is designed to train participants to become a Mixed Martial Arts judge. It is also an excellent tool for anyone interested in learning exactly what the judges look for and give credit to in scoring a fight. It covers the Unified Rules of MMA, including the judging criteria and how to use the criteria to score fights properly.
Everyone receives a certificate of participation. If you wish to be certified, you must test and pass the course with a 90% completion rate. Testing is only for those who desire to be an official, as it is one of the requirements needed to be licensed with a State, Tribal, or Provincial Athletic Commission.
MMA Informational Course: ($800.00 for a 2-Day Course)
Immerse yourself in the thrilling world of mixed martial arts (MMA) with our exclusive two-day MMA Fantasy Camp, designed for fans, industry support staff, media, bloggers, podcasters, and new coaches alike! This hands-on experience puts you in the heart of the action, offering unparalleled access to the skills and insights of expert referees and judges who work in promotions like the UFC, Bellator, and PFL. Step into the cage to referee realistic fight simulations, refine your scoring abilities by evaluating real fight rounds, and gain an insider's perspective on the decision-making process that shapes the sport. With no testing required, this engaging two-day program focuses on learning, fun, and personal growth, and participants will leave with a certificate of participation to commemorate their unforgettable journey into MMA officiating. Whether you're passionate about MMA or eager to enhance your content creation with authentic insights, this is your chance to experience the excitement like never before!
Techniques You Must Know for Both Certification Courses and the Hybrid Course: Techniques
All 3 of these courses are taught by industry experts: Big John McCarthy, Jerin Valel, Ron McCarthy, and Jason Herzog.