Dana White has worked extremely hard ever since the coronavirus pandemic derailed sporting activities all over the world. The UFC President held a Fight Night behind closed doors in Brazil. However, he faced numerous hurdles. For example, his marquee match of Khabib vs Tony didn’t go ahead.
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Though UFC 249 lost its venue, he found a new one, but the broadcasters requested him to stand down. However, he did not give in and persevered, going so far as to secure a private island to host fights in an Octagon on the beach.
Fans have nothing but praise for these unending efforts which have led to White getting even more admirers. One of them is his bitter rival and retired pugilist Oscar De La Hoya.
Oscar De La Hoya praises Dana White
‘The Golden Boy’ appeared on the CBS Sports’ podcast “State of Combat.” Here, he acknowledged past differences with the UFC President and indicated that he isn’t one to hold back on the praise when it is due.
“I commend and respect Dana. We did have our differences. When I wanted to get involved with the MMA, I did Chuck Liddell vs Tito Ortiz. It was a huge success. I dipped my toes into the water, and I experienced it. It was actually wonderful. I love the MMA. Dana came out and criticized me and ridiculed me and all that stuff. You know what? Dana is doing a phenomenal job in defending his sport, growing his sport, and he’s doing it big. He’s doing it great, man. I commend him.”
Next Saturday night, White will finally achieve his goal of bringing regular fights to the audience and silencing his doubters once and for all. UFC 249 will see two huge matches. In one match, Tony Ferguson will face Justin Gaethje for the Interim Lightweight Championship. The winner of the match-up will earn the right to fight ‘The Eagle’ in a unification bout.
In the other fight, Dominick Cruz will make his return after 40 months to fight UFC Bantamweight Champion Henry Cejudo. Also on the card are Francis Ngannou, Jairzinho Rozenstruik, and Donald Cerrone.
UFC fans too would second ‘The Golden Boy’s comments. Everyone wants his efforts to bear fruit.
Which fight are you looking forward to at UFC 249?
