On the same day that the UFC announced the signing of the main event for UFC 249, the Association of Ringside Physicians recommended that all combat sporting events be postponed until further notice.
A portion of the statement posted on its website read:
It is our recommendation that all combat sporting events be postponed until further notice. This includes any and all events, regardless of the number of people involved. Any combat sport taking place during this global pandemic places the athletes, officials, and anyone else involved in the event under unnecessary risk of infection and transmission of Covid-19. In addition, combat sports athletes often require medical attention after a bout, and we do not wish to see any additional strain on an already overwhelmed medical system.
Although the organization was setup to protect and educate ringside physicians in boxing, its mission has expanded to all combative sports.
Payout Perspective:
The statement by the ARP does not mean that UFC 249 is off. Its just another reminder that the position of the medical staff is vital in combat sports. At a time where medical resources are being stretched thin, it would seem unnecessary to strain the industry more with an event where its most likely that the fighters will need medical attention after the event. We will see how Dana White and the UFC address the situation.
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