Sean Sheehan 
For years, UFC president Dana White has dreaded putting on events in uncovered, outdoor stadiums. The 9,000+ people who gathered in the 02 arena in Dublin last Saturday night changed his mind.
Speaking on Tuesday’s edition of BT Sports UFC Beyond The Octagon White was convinced it could be pulled off. The UFC president admitted; “Next time we go there (Ireland)… I always said no, no, no, no, no… But It’s crazy not to try an outdoor stadium”
The unpredictable weather is an obvious concern but White seemed assured a solution could be found. “I can absolutely, positively guarantee you it will rain in Ireland” White said. “We’ve just got to figure out a way to get around it”
Any return would feature Dublin superstar Conor McGregor who White hinted will fight Dustin Poirier at UFC 178 on the undercard of Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson, which has later confirmed by the UFC.
White also spoke of the comparisons between McGregor and UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey.
“Some people are so talented they skyrocket to the top” the UFC president said.
“Ronda Rousey hasn’t been in this sport very long at all and look at her. Look how good she is, look how dominant she is. And the scary thing is, she just keeps getting better. I think the same thing is possible with Conor.” White said.
The Aviva stadium (capacity 51,700) and Croke Park (capacity 82,300) seem to be the logical hosts for any possible event to be held in the emerald isle. Whatever is the case, exciting times are ahead for Irish MMA.
