UFC President Dana White Says Sports Can Resume

The UFC is returning to business after being shut down for weeks by the coronavirus pandemic with an event scheduled for this Saturday and two more next week.

President of UFC, Dana White said on Closing Bell about other sports, “It can be done. The question is are they willing to do it.”

Other sports, including Major League Baseball and the National Basketball Association have not announced plans yet to resume. Some team executives and player agents have lobbied the NBA to cancel the rest of its season.

“Listen, it’s expensive. You’re going to lose your live gate, which is millions and millions of dollars,” White said. “You’re going to lose a lot of money. And it’s going to cost you a lot of money now to put on the sport, to make sure that it is safe. It can be done. The question is are they willing to do it.”

The UFC events coming up will have no fans and staffing levels will be over 50% below normal according to White. Additionally the fighters and staffers involved will be tested for the coronavirus.

“Health and safety isn’t something that just popped up with the coronavirus with us. It’s something we think about every weekend,” White said.

White said he believes the audience at home for the events will be strong but can’t be sure how many viewers they will attract.

“Three months ago I could have answered any questions about my business. I don’t know now,” White said.