UFC Abandons New Gloves: A Return to the Familiar
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has made a significant decision to revert to its older glove design, abandoning the new gloves that were first introduced in April 2024. This change was announced by UFC play-by-play commentator John Gooden at the start of UFC Vegas 102. "One note starting tonight and moving forward, all fighters will return to using the old gloves, not the ones recently introduced," Gooden confirmed. The shift back to the older gloves has been in the works for several months, driven by a combination of manufacturing logistics and widespread dissatisfaction from fighters and the promotion itself.
The Journey to the New Gloves
When the UFC unveiled the new gloves earlier this year, the primary goals were to reduce hand injuries and minimize eye pokes while maintaining the dexterity and performance of the fighters. The design team worked diligently to strike a balance between safety and functionality, aiming to enhance the overall experience for both fighters and fans. However, the reception was far from positive. The new gloves were met with a barrage of complaints, and the results in the octagon seemed to corroborate the dissatisfaction. There was a noticeable decrease in knockouts, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the new design. Despite the limited sample size, the UFC could not ignore the mounting feedback and decided to take action.
The Decision to Revert
The decision to return to the old gloves was not made lightly. UFC President Dana White acknowledged the issues and took responsibility for the change. "We originally created these gloves to stop eye pokes and we had good intentions with them," White said in November. "They didn’t work out. People weren’t happy with them." The complaints were widespread, but one of the most vocal critics was UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. Jones, who attempted to use the new gloves before his fight against Stipe Miocic, found them uncomfortable and ill-fitting. "I tried them on and I thought they were tight," Jones explained. "I used to fit in XL and in the new glove I had to put on a 3XL. The shape, curving your hands like that, they were very uncomfortable for me." The concerns raised by Jones and other fighters were significant enough to prompt the UFC to revert to the old gloves for that event. The manufacturing team then had to produce more of the old gloves to meet the demand for all future events.
The Manufacturing Challenge
The transition back to the old gloves was not immediate due to manufacturing constraints. The UFC had to balance the need for the old gloves with the ongoing production of the new design. For a period, the UFC used the old gloves for pay-per-view events while the newer design was still utilized on Fight Night cards. This interim solution allowed the UFC to manage the inventory effectively while the manufacturing team ramped up production of the old gloves. Once the manufacturing caught up, the UFC was able to make the full transition, ensuring that all fighters would have access to the familiar and preferred gloves.
The Fighter’s Perspective
For the fighters, the return to the old gloves is a welcome change. The complaints about the new gloves ranged from fit and comfort to the impact on performance. Many fighters reported that the new gloves affected their ability to throw effective punches and grapples, which is crucial in a sport where every advantage counts. The old gloves, known for their balance of protection and dexterity, have been a staple in the UFC for years. They have been tested and trusted by countless fighters, and their return is seen as a step towards maintaining the integrity of the sport. The decision to revert to the old gloves is a testament to the UFC’s commitment to listening to the voices of its athletes and making adjustments that benefit everyone involved.
Looking to the Future
While the new gloves have been abandoned, the UFC is not ruling out the possibility of exploring different designs in the future. The pursuit of improved safety and performance is an ongoing process, and the UFC remains committed to finding the best solutions for its fighters. For now, the old gloves are back in action, and the focus is on ensuring that the best possible product is presented to the fans. The return to the familiar gloves is a reminder that sometimes, the tried and true methods are the best, and the UFC’s decision to listen to feedback and make the necessary changes is a sign of its dedication to the sport and its athletes.
