“I Will Shake People’s Hands Till the Day I Die”- Dana White

UFC President Dana White chimed in the landscape of fight promotion in the current environment that has been caused by COVID-19. White aired his views following “Dana White’s Contender Series 32” that took place at the Apex Facility in Vegas. Moreover, he spoke out on a variety of different subjects ranging from Nick Diaz’s return to Khamzat Chimaev’s double booking.

The UFC has been in continuous motion ever since the organization was the first to restart in full-swing. The COVID-19 era has had a massive impact on fight booking and has led to the cancelation of major fights. What’s more, with weekly events, the company has suffered some significant setbacks, especially with the absence of a live gate.

Dana White speaks out

UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs Sakai recently wrapped up on September 5 and saw certain unprecedented changes. The fight card was whittled down to just seven fights because of last-minute cancelations taking place. Not to mention, a seven-fight card was last seen all the way back in 2005 at UFC Fight Night 2 in October.

“I think we just had a situation last week where they tested negative and then tested positive. This thing is fu**ing wacky you do the best you can. We’re doing everything the right way. It’s just who knows with this thing. Nobody’s got this whole thing figured out yet, but we’ve been solid.”

White doubled down on the notion that the company has taken every key precautionary measure to ensure overall safety. Furthermore, Dana was clear that regardless of the situation, he wouldn’t forsake the personal touch that a handshake provides.

“Think about me, I shake their hand and all this other stuff, I haven’t had COVID. I will shake people’s hands till the day I die.”

The UFC will be keen to put the recent health scares at Fight Night 176 behind them. The promotion is set for a second stint in Abu Dhabi, where they have maintained a great sense of control over COVID-19. Dana White and the UFC brass will hope for smooth sailing for the handful of events that are slated in Vegas.

Watch: Dana White Not Optimistic About Nick Diaz Comeback- DWCS-32 Post-Fight Interview