Masks. Social distancing. And empty arenas.
Welcome to MMA in May of 2020.
But once the fighters stepped into the Octagon at UFC 249, a degree of normalcy returned to the sports world. These weren’t documentaries or simulations, but rather first-rate fights that brought a much-needed pulse to those craving live action.
The highlight of the night took place in the main event as Justin Gaethje dominated Tony Ferguson to claim the interim Lightweight Championship. Referee Herb Dean had no choice but to stop the fight in the fifth round, especially after the relentless, constant punishment Ferguson (25-4) endured for nearly 24 minutes from Gaethje (22-2).