Will Wilder-Chisora Referee Face Sanctions?

Deontay Wilder and Derek Chisora's performances drew both praise and criticism following their chaotic, yet at times spectacular, 12-round heavyweight clash on Saturday night, which Wilder ultimately won by split decision. However, there was near-unanimous agreement that it was a poor night for the third man in the ring at London's O2 Arena – referee Mark Bates.

Initial reports suggested Bates would not face sanctions from the British Boxing Board of Control, but General Secretary Robert Smith told BoxingScene on Wednesday that this wasn't necessarily true. The bout will be reviewed at the board's meeting on Wednesday, where Bates' performance will be discussed.

"We will definitely be looking at it closely," Smith stated. "In situations like this, there's always a review. Once that's done, a decision is made on whether further action is required."

Bates faced criticism for several incidents. The first occurred early in the fight and set the tone. Wilder and Chisora became entangled on the ropes, and despite Bates' instructions to break the clinch, neither fighter complied. The referee attempted, but failed, to separate them – the two men collectively weighed 494 pounds – after which a member of Chisora's corner, Alexis Demetriades, entered the ring. Had Bates strictly applied the rules, Chisora should have been disqualified.

However, in certain situations, referees are encouraged to use their discretion. Given the significance of the match, the number of fans – both watching and in attendance – and the stakes for both boxers, Bates' decision to allow the fight to continue could be somewhat justified. And if this had been the sole incident, it would likely have been forgotten.

But other incidents followed. Most notably in the eighth round, when Chisora fell through the ropes and appeared to be helped back up by his corner.

"The initial reaction [when a fighter falls towards you] is always to put your hands up," said Smith, who was ringside on Saturday night. "They definitely stopped him from going through the ropes and falling to the floor... We will be looking at it."

Both boxers were guilty of punching to the back of the head, with Wilder claiming he was illegally hit "10-12 times." Despite this, only Wilder was penalized for infractions – he lost a point in the eighth round for pushing. There were also complaints from Wilder's camp about punches after the bell, as well as Chisora taking breaks, complaining of an eye injury, and not receiving an eight-count after holding onto the ropes to stay on his feet.

"It was a rough and chaotic match, and extremely difficult to officiate," Smith added. "Everything will be reviewed."