[ideals]

Speaking on crowds influencing officials, I think this has been obvious in MMA with no crowds.

There are times of little action where the ref separates fighters, typically as the inaction goes on the crowd boos more and more. With no crowd different strategies have been implemented to allow for a slower pace at times.

Also the commentators talk so loud in the empty arenas the players have said they can hear them and make adjustments based on their commentary.

Last week a commentator shouted out to stop a fight at a UFC event which has caused some turmoil afterwards as well.

Fans can also now hear all the strikes and slams to the mat watching at home because of the silence. It's made it a much better experience imo.

While all this is happening the judges are also sitting ring side so there is certainly a human factor of outside influence going on in their decision making. (MMA and boxing judges are notorious incompetent)