The UFC is back in action in just about one week’s time with UFC 249, which is going to be headlined by Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje battling for the vacant UFC Interim Lightweight Championship.
Two days ago, a statement was issued by the Association Of Boxing Commission & Combative Sports (ABC) to MMA Fighting saying that UFC 249 would go on as an unsanctioned event:
“The ABC concurs with the Association of Ringside Physicians that it’s a very trying time for the entire world. Fighter safety is paramount. If the fight occurs, it will be considered a non-sanctioned event since a state/tribal commission will not be present.”
However, it appears that the stance of the ABC has changed just two days later, as they are now sanctioning UFC 249 according to a new statement issued to MMA Fighting:
“After speaking with UFC officials, the ABC board of directors determined this event could be listed as sanctioned. When the UFC does international events, they regulate themselves using Nevada Athletic Commission inspectors, and this event on sovereign land is no different.”
It should also be noted that “there will be no sanctions imposed by the ABC for any athletes or officials involved in the event” according to ABC President Brian Dunn.
Dunn also told MMA Fighting that all future events being held at the Tachi Palace Resort Casino would be sanctioned as well.
“If the UFC continues to properly regulate future events, which I am sure they will, future events will be treated the same,” Dunn explained. “We would treat events held on mystery islands the same as well.”
UFC 249 takes place on Saturday, April 18 from the Tachi Palace Resort Casino in Lemoore, California with Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje headlining. Fightful is providing live coverage of the event, with a post-show podcast to follow.
