"People weren't happy with them": Dana White explains why he scrapped new UFC gloves
Dana White was on hand at the UFC 309 press conference, taking questions from reporters ahead of this weekend's card. Amidst reports that there will be a change back to the old gloves for the event - with many speculating that Jon Jones was the reason for the change - the promotional frontman revealed that the new gloves have been scrapped altogether.
Speaking at the press conference, the UFC CEO was asked about the change. White responded:
"Because there were a lot of complaints about it. We originally created these gloves to stop eye pokes and we had good intentions with them. They didn't work out. People weren't happy with them. So, I actually made the decision, called our Chief Operating Officer Lawrence [Epstein] and said, 'I'm switching the gloves, I want the old gloves back'."
When asked if there will be a return to the old gloves moving forward, White added:
"Yes. The new gloves are now the old gloves."
Check out Dana White's comments on returning to the old gloves below:
Fans had speculated that Jones was behind the change after he noted that he was happy to use the old gloves, labeling the new gloves as small and uncomfortable. 'Bones' noted that it was not his request, which White confirmed on Thursday by revealing that the switch back is not just for this weekend's card.
Dana White labels Jon Jones the GOAT during UFC 309 press conference
Dana White has made it clear that he believes Jon Jones is the greatest mixed martial artist of all time and the top-ranked pound-for-pound fighter on the UFC roster. He reiterated that stance during Thursday's UFC 309 press conference, stating:
"Listen, it is my belief that as long as this guy is active, he's the best. He's the pound-for-pound best in the world and he's the greatest of all-time."
Check out Dana White's comments on Jon Jones being the GOAT below:
Jones chimed in, noting that he plans to prove the UFC CEO correct when he faces Stipe Miocic on Saturday. 'Bones' already holds plenty of promotional records and will look to defend his heavyweight title for the first time this weekend. If he is successful, it will mark his 12th title defense after a lengthy reign dominating the light heavyweight division. He has hinted that this weekend's clash could mark the final appearance in his illustrious mixed martial arts career.