Golden Boy Promotions founder Oscar De La Hoya and UFC president Dana White haven’t always seen eye-to-eye. During the coronavirus pandemic, however, things seem to be a little different.
In a recent interview with CBS Sports’ “State of Combat” podcast, De La Hoya praised White’s determination in trying to get the UFC back up and running as soon as possible. De La Hoya seemingly tried to pass off past bickering as water under the bridge.
“I commend and respect Dana,” De La Hoya said. “We did have our differences. When I wanted to get involved with the MMA, I did Chuck Liddell (vs.) Tito Ortiz. It was a huge success. I dipped my toes into the water, and I experienced it. It was actually wonderful. I love the MMA.
“Dana came out and criticized me and ridiculed me and all that stuff. You know what? Dana is doing a phenomenal job in defending his sport, growing his sport, and he’s doing it big. He’s doing it great, man. I commend him.”
If all goes according to plan, the UFC will return from approximately a month-and-a-half hiatus on May 9, with UFC 249. The event will be the first of four the promotion is planning to hold in 15 days, with three other cards scheduled for May 13, May 16, and May 23.
The first three events are scheduled to take place at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Fla. The location of the May 23 card has not been finalized.
