A good friend of mine has a real problem with referees that talk, all the time, to the fighters. He had an extensive amateur career, fought pro for some time, and sparred with Emile Griffith for several fights. He HATES referees that talk to fighters, and not just because it distracts him from watching on television. He found it very disruptive while boxing, in that you are concentrating on your opponent, trying to time him and figure him out and the third guy won't shut up.
Out of curiousity, what is the general opinion on the subject? Does it bother you to have the referee carrying on a conversation? How about referees that break you when you're hands are free and you're working?