UFC 241: Dana White says Hong Kong protests are ‘messing with’ Shenzhen show

UFC president feels the ongoing demonstrations are ‘making it even more challenging’ for August 31 event

Zhang Weili looks to become first Chinese champion but White is wary of Hong Kong airport chaos

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Zhang Weili will become the first Chinese fighter to challenge for a UFC title when she faces Jessica Andrade in Shenzhen. Photo: AFP

Published: 3:51pm, 18 Aug 2019Updated: 11:38pm, 18 Aug 2019

UFC president Dana White said the Hong Kong protests are “messing with” the company’s huge Shenzhen event, which is set to take place on August 31 despite the ongoing turmoil over the border.

But White admitted more issues such as the chaos that gripped Hong Kong International Airport earlier this week could cause problems for UFC Shenzhen.

“Yeah, it’s definitely messing with the event. And definitely making it even more challenging,” he told the UFC 241 post-event press conference at the Honda Centre in Anaheim, California.

Flights were grounded for two days after anti-government protesters occupied the departures hall and blocked passengers from reaching the check-in area.

“I’ve already started messing with my flights and connections to get in there, especially after what happened the other day in Hong Kong. We’re doing the card no matter what. Even if it’s just me sitting out there watching the fights,” White said.

Armed Chinese police held a drill that featured anti-riot exercises just across the border from Hong Kong in Shenzhen as the city’s protests entered their 11th week.