The UFC has decided to revert to using its previous glove design after numerous complaints from fighters about the new gloves, which were intended to prevent eye pokes but did not meet expectations.
Five months after unveiling a new glove design, the UFC is reverting to its previous version. Yep, back to the old gloves.
Before UFC 309, fighters were told they’d be using the older gloves. It was uncertain if this was just a one-time thing or something more lasting. Then, during Thursday’s pre-fight press conference, UFC CEO Dana White cleared things up. He said it was his call to switch back because many fighters weren’t fans of the new design.
“Because there were a lot of complaints,” White admitted about the glove change. “We aimed to prevent eye pokes with the new design—good intentions and all that—but they didn’t pan out. Fighters weren’t pleased.”
White explained his decision further: “I called our COO, Lawrence Epstein, and said, ‘I’m switching the gloves. Bring back the old ones.'”
Back in April, the UFC had big plans for these new gloves. They were supposed to feel lighter, fit better, and offer max flexibility. All the bells and whistles!
When they debuted at UFC 302 in June, reactions were mixed. Some liked them; others not so much.
Critics quickly pointed out issues—knockouts seemed fewer, and eye pokes? Still happening despite the redesign.
Heavyweight champ Jon Jones got his hands on a pair before UFC 309. After trying them out, he wasn’t impressed.
“They felt tight,” Jones said. “I used to wear XL but needed 3XL in these new ones. The shape was uncomfortable.”
Jones later expressed relief when informed that the old gloves would make a comeback for UFC 309.
Now it looks like those old gloves are sticking around for good—White confirmed they’re retiring the new ones permanently.
“Yep, the new gloves are now officially old news,” White quipped.
No word yet if they’ll try another redesign down the line, but for now, those June debut gloves are history.