5 ways UFC president Dana White impacted pro sports during the pandemic

#4. Creating a bubble for each UFC event

The bubble at Fight Island and the UFC Apex was an important step in the promotion’s attempt to resume. Dana White secured a deal to bring events to Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. This allowed all fighters and staff to remain at one neutral location prior to and following their fight.

The bubble the promotion created for their events was very successful and ended up being replicated by other sports leagues. Major League Soccer and the NBA did something similar at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. The MLS hosted the ‘MLS is Back!’ tournament, while the NBA completed their post-season at the same time.

Another example was the National Hockey League, who created two bubbles in Canada to complete their Stanley Cup playoffs. The success White had with the promotion was significant as it was proof that pro sports could resume in a safe environment.

---

#3. Keeping UFC staff and media employed

UFC Fight Night: Overeem v Harris

One positive that shouldn’t be overlooked is that White helped keep his staff and MMA media employed. During the early months of the pandemic, many businesses were laying off employees due to the financial burden. Unemployment rates began to rise, especially with the uncertainty of the duration of the pandemic.

In the media landscape, there were many reporters and broadcasters that even lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic. White resuming events helped keep MMA reporters employed because there was a demand for MMA content and coverage.

In addition, if the promotion was going to be resuming events, that meant their staff would also be required again. He was able to keep the production crew, broadcasters, fighters, and staff members employed and able to make a living. Furthermore, all the hospitality workers on Fight Island also benefited as they were required to ensure everything ran smoothly.