Dana White: “We Might be Living” on Fight Island Due to COVID-19 Surge

The UFC is planning to hold more events at the promotion’s Apex Facility in Las Vegas next month, after spending July on Yas Island. But, as COVID-19 cases continue to surge in several states, including Nevada, Dana White says ‘Fight Island’ could continue.

White says UFC “could be living” on Fight Island

On Wednesday, the UFC will hold its second event to date on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, following UFC 251 this past weekend. The promotion is holding two more shows overseas on the 18th and 25th, before returning to Las Vegas.

That’s the plan for right now, anyways.

But, due to the rising cases of COVID-19 in several states, including Nevada, there is the possibility of another, more extensive lockdown. Earlier this year, when the pandemic began to surge, Nevada did not allow any combat sports events to be held.

While speaking to the media recently, White was asked about what the UFC will do, if the Apex Facility becomes a no-go (quotes via MMA Junkie).

“We’re thinking about (a backup plan) now,” White said. “My backup plan would be ‘Fight Island.’ We might be living here. …

Anything is possible. If Nevada shuts down and doesn’t allow us to do fights in Nevada, yeah, I’m going to be spending a lot of time in Abu Dhabi.”

“I hope not. I hope not, no. Listen, we’ve proved we can do these things in Nevada or anywhere – safely.

Hopefully we keep getting to do what we do in Nevada, and we can keep coming to Abu Dhabi for international fights.

That’s what I’m hoping. But yes, I’m thinking about what happens if we get shut down and what’s next.”

White confirms another run of Fight Island events

Even if Nevada remains open to the UFC, in terms of holding cards, White confirmed that the promotion will be returning to Abu Dhabi for another run of events.

“Not officially, but yes, we’re going to have another run of events out here,” White said. “If you look at what’s going on in the world, like I told you guys before, I don’t see this changing anytime soon.”

It’s probably wise to make alternative plans and to keep Yas Island as an option, no question. You also have to worry about more fighters and coaches contracting the virus in their home cities.

Recently Marlon Moraes confirmed that he is one of the latest, UFC fighters to test positive for COVID-19.