Dana White and the UFC have made a decision, and not a completely shocking one. The UFC President has read the tea leaves perfectly. And with that, the UFC goes back to Abu Dhabi.
✈️ We’re headed ???? to Abu Dhabi #UFC267
— UFC (@ufc) August 10, 2021
[ @VisitAbuDhabi | @InAbuDhabi | #InAbuDhabi | https://t.co/d9jOMvuRxJ ] pic.twitter.com/JPB3z34hVD
In the last couple of weeks and especially post-UFC 265, White was starting to be asked more about the company’s upcoming schedule. Especially since states side variants of Covid-19 are flaring up. While he may be steadfast in his decisions, politicians have a much more thinner tight rope to walk.
Case in point; the New York November card had holes pop up like it was the titanic. Mayor Bill de Blasio has mandated to enter anything indoors, one must show proof of vaccine. Michael-Chandler who was said to be in the co-main event versus Justin-Gaethje made it clear he wouldn’t be vaccinated by then, if at all.
Immediately after the Houston card, White traveled back to his new favorite home away from home, Abu Dhabi. And the news breaking Tuesday afternoon is not only may they be there for October, but conceivable for the fall and winter. Unless there’s more pushback in Texas, Florida, and Vegas.
Back To Abu Dhabi: The Plan
We Are BACK!@UFC announces #UFC267 will be held in Abu Dhabi on October 30. More info ⤵️
— UFC News (@UFCNews) August 10, 2021
[@VisitAbuDhabi | @InAbuDhabi | #InAbuDhabi]
While fights haven’t specifically been announced, just about everyone on the roster is ready to get back in the cage. As a result, four fights have been mentioned: Jan Blachowicz defending the light heavyweight strap against Glover Texeira, Petr Yan, and Aljamain Sterling settling their differences, the return of Khamzat Chimaev, and Islam Makhachev versus RDA. Fans will also have a premium experience there as well, with interactions and expos. And fighters won’t have to deal with a 10-mile radius bubble like they did the first time on the island. The 267 card will be the first numbered card in ten years that will not be a pay-per-view but will be on ESPN and ESPN+.
