UFC 296 officials announced for Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington, Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval

UFC 296 will close out the promotion’s 2023 at the end of the week with two title fights at the top of the lineup.

As is the case with all major title fights in its jurisdiction, the Nevada Athletic Commission held a hearing Tuesday to select officials for the two championship bouts.

In the main event, welterweight champion Leon Edwards (21-3 MMA, 13-2 UFC) puts his title on the line against former interim champ Colby Covington (17-3 MMA, 12-3 UFC). And in the co-feature, flyweight titleholder Alexandre Pantoja (26-5 MMA, 10-3 UFC) meets challenger Brandon Royval (15-6 MMA, 5-2 UFC).

Referees and judges were voted on and unanimously approved after recommendation from NAC executive director Jeff Mullen. UFC 296 takes place Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The main card airs on pay-per-view following prelims on ESPN2 and early prelims on ESPN+.

See the list of officials below.