UFC 249: ringside doctors back off call for combat sports ban as Jacksonville date nears

After calling for an indefinite ban on combat sports events in April, the Association of Ringside Physicians (ARP) wants coronavirus precautions to be developed with an eye on staging events.

In a weekend statement on the group’s website, the doctors, who train and certify ringside boxing and mixed martial arts doctors worldwide, updated their stance based on the relaxing of stay-at-home requirements.

“Although it is impossible to eliminate all risk associated with Covid-19, precautions can be made to reduce the risk of viral transmission,” the statement said.

“Many athletic commissions, organisations and promotors are developing new guidelines to limit exposure to all involved at events, including athletes, their teams, commission personnel and support staff.”

Sports worldwide have been shut down by the coronavirus pandemic.