Reference woes

[Anotheronenamed]

Has anyone ever had a job withdrawn due to a reference not coming back at all? Or any other reason. I mean surely unless something massive comes up, you've got the job still?

Not for a reference not coming back no, but as an employer I would often make an off record phone call to previous employer as a belt and braces to help with employment.
Was your last job good and did you leave on good terms?
Sorry, may not help....

Not me. But exBIL. His references are not great from previous employment and/or people refuse to provide the level of (positive) detail required.

What is the specific issue in this case?