Donald Trump congratulated Dana White and the UFC for putting together an event despite the ongoing pandemic.
"I want to congratulate Dana White and the UFC. They’re going to have a big match. We love it. We think it’s important," the president said in a recorded message that was shot on the White House lawn and shown during the ESPN broadcast. "Get the sports leagues back. Let’s play. You do the social distancing and whatever else you have to do, but we need sports. We want our sports back."
Saturday night's UFC 249 was the first major U.S. sporting event since social distancing restrictions began. It was also one of the UFC's three upcoming events. Like the contests that'll be held on May 13 and 16, UFC 249 was closed the public and only essential workers were allowed in the Jacksonville arena.
"All athletes and staff will be required to adhere to a number of precautionary measures, such as participating in advanced medical screenings and temperature checks and following social distancing guidelines," the UFC website says about these events.
Two-weight UFC champion Henry Cejudo retired at 33-years-old after defeating Dominick Cruz via TKO in the second round to defend his 135-pound title on Saturday.
Former Dallas Cowboy Greg Hardy beat Yorgan De Castro by unanimous decision. Also, Justin Gaethje defeated Tony Ferguson in the night's main event.
