Dana White announced Wednesday night that UFC 249 will not happen due to the coronavirus pandemic. White spent countless hours behind the scenes to try to put together something entertaining for sports fans across the world, but the restrictions and boundaries set in place due to the virus have canceled yet another sporting event. The pay-per-view event was scheduled to take place April 18.
White also said any UFC-related events will be canceled until further notice. White said a call with some pretty important people made him decide to cancel the event.
“Today, we got a call from the highest level you can go at Disney, and the highest level at ESPN and the powers that be there asked me to stand down and not do this event on Saturday,” White said.
White had said on Monday he had made a deal with the Tachi Palace in California, a Native American reservation, and would be putting on fights throughout the coming weeks. Even though the fights got canceled, White made sure to show his appreciation towards the casino.
“It’s been a battle since day one,” White said. “We’ve been fighting non-stop all day and all night, since this pandemic started, to put on this event on April 18th.
“Tachi Palace in California, the Indian reservation, has had our back this whole time, has stood their ground, and was willing to do this fight. And let me tell you this: When the world gets back to normal, California, that (fight) will be at Tachi Palace.”
UFC 249 was supposed to feature a headline fight between Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje.
In Opposition
Democratic Senator from California, Dianne Feinstein, released a statement expressing concern about the fight even happening.
“This event would involve dozens of individuals flying to California and driving to a casino for a purpose no one can honestly claim is essential,” Feinstein said in her statement. “I understand this event is scheduled to take place on tribal land and therefore is not subject to state law.
“However, at best, this event ties up medical resources and sends a message that shelter-in-place orders can be flouted.
“At worst, participants and support staff could carry the virus back to their home communities and increase its spread.”
White says he wants all UFC fighters to enjoy this time off and to be safe.
“All of my fighters that are under contract with me, I want them to feel safe, take time with your families, and enjoy this time,” White said Thursday. “Don’t worry about the financial part of this. You’re gonna get the fights in your contract, and I’m gonna make things right with the people who were willing to step up and fight next weekend on April 18th.
“And I’m gonna take care of as many people as I possibly can, and do whatever it takes to make these guys all feel comfortable.”
The UFC President wanted everyone to know that sports will be back soon, but UFC will be back first. “I know the fans are chomping at the bit for some fights to come back,” White said. “I promise them I will be first, and I will be back very soon.”
