R. Couture criticizes UFC's 'Ilha da Luta'. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @xcnatch
Ultimate's decision to resume its activities as quickly as possible, even during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, has divided opinions around the world. Some want weekly entertainment to return, but there are those who criticize Dana White and his team's efforts to return to normal programming, as is the case with MMA legend Randy Couture.
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“I have mixed feelings (about the UFC’s return). “You start to balance, how much of this is propaganda? We start talking about real numbers. You look at the flu that happens every year and how many people die. When was this recorded on the same scale (as the current pandemic)? We are facing something big and, literally, it will sink the world economy”, said Couture in an interview with the podcast 'Weighing in'
Ultimate Hall of Famer Randy, however, spoke about the moment of worldwide awareness. At the moment, the world is experiencing social isolation, which restricts contact between people in an attempt to reduce the coronavirus contagion curve.
“At the same time, everyone else is 'locked in' (at home). Why do you think it's okay to go out and try to put on a show and put athletes in danger, potentially, with so many unknowns? I don't know. I had mixed feelings about it,” said the American.
Former UFC light heavyweight (up to 93kg) and heavyweight (up to 120,2kg) champion, Couture also criticized the company's attitude, which, according to its president, Dana White, will have a private island adapted to host clashes even during the pandemic.
“Now, we're hearing about an 'Island for Fighters' and it's crazy. 'Pandemic Island', that's what we should call it”, said Randy, before adding: 'We're all in this together. Why should anyone be any different? The UFC is no different from everything else”, he concluded.
After officially halting its activities last year, Ultimate is close to announcing its return. According to 'MMA Fighting', the organization has plans to hold its card on May 9th at a location that has not yet been announced.
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