TUESDAY’S NEWS DIGEST 8/22: NSAC Executive Director Bob Bennett discusses approving Mayweather vs. McGregor, Matt Hughes update, Demi Lovato to sing national anthem

BY JOHN KIM, MMATORCH CONTRIBUTOR

Matt Hughes (photo credit Joe Camporeale © USA Today)

NSAC Executive Director Bob Bennett discusses approving Mayweather vs. McGregor

Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Bob Bennett said that money does not play a factor in the approval of fights. Bennett was a guest on The MMA Hour where he was asked about the decision to approve a bout against a boxing world champion and a fighter with no boxing experience.

Bennet said that the commission uses a standard procedure for every fight, but that this fight deviated from those practices.

“I have a format that I go by that I had to deviate a little from,” Bennett said. “Because this is unprecedented. It is historic. Both these guys are phenomenal athletes. I took a real close look at Conor, because everybody knows Floyd. He’s 49-0, arguably the best defense in the history of boxing. Future Hall of Famer.”

Bennet added that he cannot let the business side affect his decisions.

“I take a look at each fighter’s record,” Bennett said. “I have a standard operating procedure that I use and when it comes to finances, I don’t even want to hear about it. The money does not enter into my position as an executive director.”

John’s Analysis: I almost threw up my lunch listening to this interview.  The BS that this guy was shoveling was just too much for me.  The only reason this fight got sanctioned was because of the money.  Mr. Bob Bennet is lucky it was a radio interview because there’s no way he could keep a straight face if he was on camera.  I understand that the commission has to look professional, but c’mon Bob.  Don’t tell us that money didn’t play a factor at all. 

Matt Hughes seen grappling again

Tony Zucca posted a recent Instagram video of Matt Hughes grappling. https://www.instagram.com/p/BYEpnztldLL/?taken-by=tonyzucca.  Hughes has been recovering from an accident since June.  The UFC Hall of Famer was driving his truck over train tracks when the oncoming train struck Hughes’ vehicle.  He was airlifted to a nearby hospital where he was treated for traumatic brain injuries.

Long-time friend of Matt Hughes, Tony Zucca also posted a picture last week of the two going out to lunch to eat sushi.  https://www.instagram.com/p/BXwXZWIFatq/?taken-by=tonyzucca  Although Hughes appears to be noticeably thinner, it seems he is making tremendous progress in his recovery.

John’s thoughts: It’s great seeing Matt roll again.  I’m really happy he’s doing better.  I hope he makes a full recovery from this.   

TUESDAY NOTEBOOK ITEMS

– Mayweather Promotions announced that Demi Lovato will perform the national anthem before the Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor main event

– Court McGee will face Sean Strickland at UFC Fight Night 120 in Norfolk, VA. on November 11th.


NOW CHECK OUT YESTERDAY’S UPDATE: MONDAY NEWS DIGEST 8/21: Brian Stann moving on from UFC commentary role, Anthony Joshua open to MMA fight, Polaris 5 results

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*