Dana White: Sports leagues should look to Florida during coronavirus pandemic
Saturday's UFC 249 show at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Fla., brought live professional sports back to North America for the first time since leagues shut down in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.
White told TMZ Sports on Monday that the promotion is back and firing on all cylinders. He added he's prepared to offer advice to commissioners searching for ideas to either complete or begin seasons.
"We're willing to share our information with anybody," White said of the UFC's testing and safety protocol.
He also said that leagues and states have reached out to the organization. White added he believes fans won't be able to attend sporting events through at least the end of the year.
Everyone involved with the production of UFC 249 was tested for coronavirus ahead of the event. Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza and two of his cornermen tested positive, and Souza was pulled from the show.
In a statement obtained by ESPN, UFC announced the three men were asymptomatic and not exhibiting any coronavirus symptoms.
Last month, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis publicly welcomed sports back to the state despite concerns regarding the virus outbreak. White had only positive things to say about his dealings with Florida officials and the state's athletic commission following his first event in this new normal.
"The state of Florida, the governor here has been amazing," White said. "And if you are a sport that's coming back right now, and you're looking for a place to go, do it in Florida."
While it's been proposed that the NBA and MLB could complete campaigns with all teams playing games in Flordia, nothing has been agreed upon regarding those seasons as of May 11.
The next UFC shows in Jacksonville are scheduled for May 13 and May 16.
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