UFC to stage three events next month in Florida

FLORIDA: UFC 249 appears to be back on track, as the mixed martial arts promotion has announced to stage three events in Jacksonville, Florida, next month.

The mixed martial arts promotion announced its plans to return to action after postponing and canceling several shows due to the coronavirus pandemic.

According to UFC President Dana White, the events will be closed to the public and only essential personnel will be in the arena.

Dana White also said, “UFC 249 is now scheduled for 9 May at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville with no fans in attendance.” The UFC president also plans to hold shows on May 13 and May 16 at the same arena in northern Florida.

Dana White further said, “I can’t wait to deliver some great fights for the fans,” adding, “My team is ready to go and the fighters are excited to get back in there with these back-to-back events.”

In this regard, Jacksonville mayor Lenny Curry said, “The UFC organization is a renowned entertainment brand that’s presented a safe and sensible plan to use this Jacksonville location, and we are thrilled to have our city highlighted nationally.”

UFC 249 will include two title fights, with bantamweight champ Henry Cejudo defending his belt against former champion Dominick Cruz.

The UFC has been out of action since holding a full fight card in an empty arena in Brazil on 14 March.