Eddie Hearn isn't a fan of Dana White's decision to persist with UFC 249, saying "it's bad taste".
The MMA promotion's original plans have been knocked on the head due to coronavirus, with Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Tony Ferguson being postponed for the FIFTH time due to the lightweight champion being stuck in Russia.
The New York State Athletic Commission wouldn't let the event go ahead at the Barclays Center due to the restriction of mass gatherings but the show is still going on however, and will now see Justin Gaethje face off against Ferguson for the interim title in the headline bout on April 18.
UFC president White has talked about being close to securing a private island that would allow UFC to stage future fights and while Matchroom boxing head honcho admires his persistence, he feels he's making the wrong call in carrying on running shows.
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Speaking to the Daily Express, he said: "It's unbelievable, I'd like to think that in boxing, there's no-one more roll your sleeves up and get on with it than me.
'But even I wouldn't consider staging an event right now. I'm not even thinking about options, not even on the radar. 'This is stubbornness.
"These are many of the things that make him successful but at some point you have to sit back and say "white flag". 'I'm quite surprised ESPN are going ahead with this, obviously they want ratings and money.
"But with Sky Sports and DAZN, I would not be allowed to stage events right now. It's bad taste to be quite honest.
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"He wants to be a trailblazer, people have told him he can't do it. But I know the feeling of being told something and you do it anyway. Half of me admires him for cracking on but the other half says 'come on, don't be mad.'"
White had been tight-lipped on the whereabouts of UFC 249 but fresh reports say it will actually take place behind close doors in California.
The state did originally postpone combat sports but White has exploited a loophole as the Tachi Fight Palace is on an Indian reservation belonging to the Tachi-Yokut Tribe and is part of the 'federally-recognized' Santa Rosa Indian Community.
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The resort has its own commission and is not required to adhere to the laws set out by the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC).
White has confirmed that Joe Rogan will be providing commentary for UFC 249 despite rumours regarding his health concerns, while he's also added that fighters, medical personnel and production team members will be tested for coronavirus prior to the event.
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