Dana White and Co. may not have put up the best card for their final event on ESPN, but the brass made sure to send a positive message at UFC Vegas 112. The promotion honored the late ESPN commentator Stuart Scott, who passed away almost a decade ago. This tribute went hand-in-hand with the message the UFC wanted to spread: awareness regarding cancer.

The UFC aired an emotional video montage during the live broadcast of UFC Vegas 112, which showcased fighters talking about their struggles with cancer. The late great Stuart Scott also passed away due to cancer in his appendix in 2015. As such, the MMA giants gave him his flowers, with Michael Bisping thanking him for “spearheading the movement of mixed martial arts” during the Fight Night broadcast.

Stuart Scott also played an instrumental role through the Stuart Scott Memorial Cancer Research Fund by the V Foundation. Even a decade after his passing, the fund continues to operate, raising over $400 million for cancer research.

This tribute touched the fans’ hearts. They not only remembered Stuart Scott but also thanked the UFC for the message they sent. Let’s take a look at their reactions.

Fans applaud the UFC’s cancer awareness message

“That tribute to those affected by cancer hits right in the feels. Great job by the UFC and ESPN tonight. Incredible stuff,” a fan wrote on X.

Fans seem to have a lot of love for Stuart Scott. Although he’s known for his role as a commentator for NBA and NFL games, the Chicago native also loved MMA and attended many UFC events back in the day. He’s certainly earned his place in the heart of the fight community.

“[Honorable] work for cancer research,” wrote another fan.

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The UFC has partnered with the V Foundation for cancer research, which has the fans backing Dana White and Co. There have been harrowing reports from the National Cancer Institute, which claim that almost 40 percent of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. So, Dana White’s move to contribute to the research is certainly going to help a lot of people.

“Stuart’s impact runs deep. Respect.”

The love for Stuart Scott kept pouring in from the fans. The commentator earned his own fanbase with his chops, as he had a poetic way of articulating his thoughts. Scott used slang originating from his community and promoted the African-American culture in the mainstream.

“Man, it’s tough, and they beat insurmountable odds over and over again, but cancer is just different. God bless everyone’s health.”

The fans also showed empathy for those going through cancer or who’ve lost family members and friends due to this medical condition. According to the National Cancer Institute, more than half a million Americans could end up losing their lives to the illness in 2025. It’s certainly a jarring fact to learn about, which is why a fan claims precautions should be taken.

“Awareness is key”

Fans don’t always respond to video segments aired during an event’s broadcast. It was evident in the online reaction to the ESPN era tribute packages. But the Stuart Scott tribute and the cancer awareness drive gained a lot of support. Meanwhile, one fan wanted Dana White to do one more thing that could benefit the fighters.

“UFC should pay for fighters who face cancer struggles.”

For a long time, the UFC has been called out for underpaying fighters. And while Dana White may have dismissed those claims time and time again, he may not be able to face away from the fans’ demand to pay for the fighters who’ve competed in his promotion if they ever face struggles with cancer.

Well, what do you think about Dana White and Co.’s tribute to Stuart Scott and their efforts in cancer research? Drop your comments below.