The future of UFC Dublin hangs in the balance, as major policy change could jeopardize the event.
The Coronavirus hasn’t been kind to the UFC. Recently, the company announced the cancelation of four of its events. These include Nebraska (April 25), Oklahoma City (May 2), and San Diego (May 16).
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A recent update suggests that UFC Dublin might be next.
The UFC is targeting a return to Conor McGregor’s home country of Ireland on August 15. It will be the company’s fourth event in the country. Robert Whittaker and Darren Till are expected to headline the card. However, the event may not materialize; a recent decision by the Irish Government suggests.
UFC Ireland in trouble?
“Local authorities have been advised by Government that event promoters should be informed that events requiring licenses in excess of 5,000 will not be considered for the period up to the end of August,” the Government said in a statement published by Reuters (Via MMA Fighting).
As of now, the UFC has made no official announcement regarding the matter. The fight card could take place behind closed doors. But it would lose its charm, as the Irish fans are the unique selling point of any card that takes place in Ireland.
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The previous fight cards in Dublin were a huge success. Their first-ever event in the 3 Arena featured Dan Henderson vs Rich Franklin as the main event. The company then returned to Ireland for the second time with its megastar Conor McGregor headlining the card.
The UFC’s last visit to Ireland was in October 2015 in which Louis Smolka defeated Irish fighter, Paddy Holohan.
What are your thoughts on the announcement? Do you think that the event will take place behind closed doors?
