UFC to Texas? Commission provides insight on potential return to full-capacity events

In the wake of recent comments made by UFC president Dana White, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has provided more insight on full-capacity MMA events returning to the state.

At the UFC 259 pre-fight news conference last Thursday in Las Vegas, MMA Junkie lead reporter John Morgan asked White what the likelihood is the promotion would return to Texas in the coming weeks. Days prior, Gov. Greg Abbott lifted a wide range of state-imposed COVID-19 restrictions.

“Yes, as soon as the governor of Texas said that, I called,” White said. “Dallas said no. I’m working on Houston. We’ll see if we can get Houston done. I want to go to Texas ASAP. I’ll go in the next two, three weeks. I’m ready to roll. We’ll be first. We’ll open this thing up. We’ll sell it out and be on our way.”

How soon did “ASAP” mean to White? He wouldn’t rule out shifting UFC 260, currently slated for the UFC Apex, to Texas on March 27.

On Tuesday, TDLR spokesperson Tela Mange provided MMA Junkie with information pertaining to the feasibility and likelihood of a UFC event being held in Texas and what it would mean for COVID-19 protocols and procedures.

Where does Texas stand on occupancy rules at the moment?

Business capacity is included in Gov. Abbott’s removal of state-imposed restrictions, as are masks. Venues can operate at 100 percent occupancy beginning Wednesday. The TDLR’s first full-capacity event is a boxing card this Saturday in Dallas.

Prior to the recent ruling by the governor, the TDLR required promotions to hold events with no greater than 50 percent capacity.

What does the recent removal of restrictions mean for COVID-19 testing and protocols pertaining to combat sports events?

While the TDLR is still finalizing details and evaluating options, testing protocols “are likely to remain in place” for fighters, corners and coaches, event staff, and others at combat sports events in Texas. Face coverings will be encouraged but not mandated.

Alternative COVID-19 mitigation strategies pertaining to social distancing, occupancy, and masking requirements can be added by venue owners looking to impose further safety measures.

Trauma service regions with hospitalization rates greater than 15 percent for seven days may implement additional requirements, too.

Could we see a UFC event held in Texas in the coming weeks?

The TLDR confirmed the UFC has inquired about a return to Texas in late March. As of Tuesday, however, the UFC had not filed required paperwork to hold an upcoming event.