UFC is back in business; Dana White announces future plans
The boss has spoken and the UFC is back up and running.
Today UFC president Dana White appeared on an Instagram live video with ESPN to discuss the upcoming schedule for his company.
First order of business will be UFC 249 on May 9. White said the event would take place in Florida, but would not name a city or venue for the event. Reports have linked Jacksonville to hosting the card.
The main event for UFC 249 will be an interim lightweight championship fight between Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje. White cannot wait for that fight and gave fans a personal guarantee for it.
“The Ferguson Gaethje fight might be the most violent fight you’re ever going to see,” said White in the video with ESPN.
“I can guarantee that fight will be incredible.”
White also said that the winner of that fight will indeed fight Khabib Nurmagomedov for the undisputed championship in either September or October.
UFC 249 will also feature one other champion fight as Henry Cejudo will defend his bantamweight title in the co-main event against former champ Dominick Cruz.
“He’s [Cruz] still on one of the best in the world. For a guy like Henry Cejudo, who wants to fight anyone, you wan guys like Cruz on your resume.”
Once the action packed UFC 249 card is over, the UFC will be holding another event in Florida the following weekend. In the short future, Florida is a guaranteed location for UFC events. The state ruled professional sports essential and UFC events have been ruled good to go by the governor and the state’s athletic commission.
White is also excepting a May 23 fight card, but would not give any specific information on upcoming events. The only conformation he gave regarding future events is that they will be aired on ESPN.
One location outside of Florida that White did touch on is his “Fight Island,” which is almost complete.
“Fight Island should be up and running in June. We will be able to start holding international events in June. An Octagon is going to be on a beach. There will be hotels, training facilities, you name it we got it.”
Whether the fights are taking place in Florida or a private island, one thing is certain for future UFC events. Until further notice, there will be no fans in attendance.
“We have a really good plan in place. We know we can do it, we did it in Brazil. I don’t know when fans will be able to attend, but in the meantime we’re good to go without fans.”
While many have people have shown backlash towards White for attempting to put on events during the coronavirus pandemic, White insured everyone that the UFC is taking the proper steps to put on his upcoming events.
“Fighters will be tested. We’re going to spend a lot of money to make sure everyone is healthy. Not just the fighters, but the commission, the referees, the employees, literally everybody.”
