President Donald Trump congratulated UFC President Dana White for reopening events after an almost two-month hiatus, according to a recently published article.


First to Reopen After Nearly Two Months Hiatus Due to COVID-19

Most major sports in the United States have announced temporary closure since the pandemic began. It is in the effort to control the spread of the infectious and deadly virus that has infected almost 4 million people around the globe as of today.

Last month, UFC President Dana White announced that he was a day or two away from closing a deal that would secure an island for upcoming UFC fights. He also added that health and safety measures would be followed to ensure that the fighters and other essential personnel are protected from the virus as much as possible.

He also announced that the island is now in the process of building structures and will be operational in June. However, the upcoming fights will be held in empty stadiums with no fans at all. Only the media, who will cover the bouts, will be allowed in the venue.


UFC Fighter Who Was Scheduled for UFC 249 Was Pulled Out After Testing Positive for COVID-19 

As the UFC reopens again, all 24 fighters, including their crew and other essential personnel, were tested for the virus. Unfortunately, Brazilian fighter Ronaldo Souza, who was scheduled to fight Uriah Hall, tested positive for the virus along with his two cornermen.

According to the official statement of the UFC, the three of them have left the host hotel. They were following the health and safety protocol guidelines for those who tested positive for the virus. They are now self-isolating, and their conditions are being closely monitored.

UFC also added that they would provide medical assistance and treatment if deemed necessary. Moreover, there were no other fighters or personnel who tested positive for the virus. Other bouts scheduled last Saturday resumed. 


Trump Congratulates UFC President Dana White 

President Donald Trump congratulated UFC President Dana White for reopening the sport again. His message was broadcast prior to the bouts. 

Trump said: "I want to congratulate (UFC President) Dana White and the UFC. They're going to have a big match. We love it. We think it's important. Get the sports leagues back. Let's play. Do the social distancing and whatever else you have to do. We need sports. We want our sports back. Congratulations to Dana White and UFC."

The decision of UFC to restart its fights again will become the blueprint for other major sports leagues on how to strategically reopen leagues like NBA, NFL, MLB, and more. 

You may recall that the NFL has already released its 2020 schedule, including its opener and Superbowl in February of 2021. The league also asserted that they do not have any plans to change the schedule but may modify it. One of the plans is to proceed with the scheduled games without the presence of fans.


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