It sucks when an early stoppage cheats a fighter out of their right to compete. But the alternative of them taking too much damage is a greater risk. I've seen a ratio of about 4 to 1 for fights that go on too long to fights that end early. Also keep in mind that conventional count outs are also subjective because they rely on the judgement of the ref for the count speed and when the count ends. A fighter who deserves to win should never put themselves in that position.

The absolute worst thing that can happen is a Leavander Johnson type situation. Those are the only times a fighter can die in the ring.