“Ain’t Happening”: Dana White Throws Cold Water on Eddie Hearn’s Plans For the Las Vegas Sphere

A potential undisputed lightweight championship clash between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano could steal the thunder from the UFC in the race to christen Las Vegas’s newest marvel, the MSG Sphere. Negotiations are reportedly underway for a June fight, potentially making it the first combat sports event held at the technologically advanced venue. Previously, the UFC had secured a September date for a Mexican Independence Day event.

They aimed to leverage the Sphere’s immersive video and audio capabilities. However, a boxing showdown between Taylor and Serrano, a highly anticipated rematch following their split decision thriller in 2022, could now take center stage. An official announcement from Taylor’s promoter, Matchroom Boxing, is expected this week. However, Dana White wouldn’t let it happen and even apologized to Eddie Hearn beforehand.

Dana White does not want boxing to beat the UFC

The race to be the first combat sports event at Las Vegas’s brand-new MSG Sphere just got a whole lot feistier. In a now-viral tweet by Boxing insider Michael Benson, White delivered a playful jab towards Hearn, assuring him with a hint of mock sympathy: “I love Eddie Hearn; I consider him a friend; ain’t happening.” It’s a clear message, one laced with both camaraderie and competition.

While acknowledging their friendly rivalry, White asserted dominance, reminding everyone that the UFC has already secured a date for a September event. He also added, “Sorry Eddie, love you buddy, you can go in the Sphere in October.” So, White clarified that he doesn’t mind boxing events being held at the Sphere, but he just doesn’t want them to be the first combat sports event. Expectedly, for White, the UFC comes first.

As of now, it’s not completely confirmed if Hearn will go ahead with the negotiations regarding the venue of the Taylor vs. Serrano 2 fight. When asked about the venue for this being the sphere, Eddie Hearn quite cleverly deviated from the question.

Eddie Hearn keeps it vague for now

The rumors about the rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano have been in the headlines for quite some time now. Moreover, it has also started a line of thought among the individuals that it could very well take place at the Las Vegas Sphere. So, in an interview with NoSmokeSport, Hearn was asked about this rumor and if there’s any truth in it.

It’s safe to say that Hearn didn’t want to confirm or deny it as of now. He didn’t answer the question directly; in fact, he tried to raise the prospect of the Taylor-Serrano rematch. Hearn stated, “I think you know she won’t be fighting Chantelle next. There’s a good chance she could fight Serrano next. We are; we have open dialogue with their team, and we’ll see how they progress.”

So, the fans will have to wait a bit longer to get any confirmed news and see who will win this race between MMA and boxing. What are your thoughts on this topic? Who are you supporting? Tell us in the comments section.