Eddie Hearn could have chosen to take advantage of the current situation by fixing some event or at least hyping something for the future. But with the severity that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought, the popular promoter opted to heed government guidelines and be in self-quarantine. Like most influencers, he would be one of the people who would call on everyone to take necessary preventive measures against the coronavirus pandemic.
Hearn recently made headlines for lashing out at the actions of UFC president Dana White. Rather than heed the call to hold off events for the safety off everyone, the 50-year-old opted to continue and look for a place to stage UFC 249. His persistence paid off with reports that he has found a secure place to stage not only the upcoming event but for future fights as well. It will allegedly be on a secure island, something that sent of mixed feelers.
For his part, Hearn was left in disbelief at how White preferred to push through with UFC 249 rather than call it off. While he admires how the UFC president was able to pull some strings, questions were raised on how serious White is taking the COVID-19 pandemic that has claimed lives and infection a lot of people at a rapid pace.
"It’s unbelievable, I’d like to think that in boxing, there’s no-one more roll your sleeves up and get on with it than me," Hearn said to Express Sport.
For his part, Hearn reveals that he is not even thinking about staging any events for now. Rather, he prefers to look out for his and everyone's safety and hold off his plans at the proper time. Judging by the coronavirus developments, that may take time.
As for White, most have urged him to seriously reconsider shelving UFC 249 for the safety of fighters and staff required to make the event possible. Even if he does plan to take proper security measures to ensure the safety of most, contracting the disease is still possible.
Khabib Nurmagomedov was originally set to face Tony Fergusson but begged off since he was unable to travel out of Russia. In his place is Justin Gaethje, the closest fighter that was willing to face El Cucuy. Another fighter who has reportedly withdrawn is Rose Namajunas who was set to face Jessica Andrade in the co-main event.
So far, the name of the venue (or island) reminds unknown. UFC 249 is scheduled to take place on Apr. 18 with ESPN surprisingly ready to televise the event.
