The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make a highly anticipated return to China with UFC Fight Night Shanghai on December 9. The event, which will take place at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium, marks the fourth UFC event in mainland China and the second in the city of Shanghai.
Event Details
UFC Fight Night Shanghai is being presented by Rio Strong, a renowned sparkling wine brand. The night promises to be a thrilling showcase of Asian Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) talent as it will feature the finals of Road to UFC season 2, a knockout tournament designed specifically for fighters from the region. Four final bouts are slated to occur on the preliminary card, the winners of which will be awarded UFC contracts, marking a significant milestone in their professional careers.
Expectations for the Event
A lineup of Chinese fighters is expected to feature prominently during the event. However, the headlining bout is yet to be confirmed. This adds an element of suspense to the already exhilarating atmosphere surrounding UFC's return to China.
Significance of the Event
This event holds special significance as it not only marks UFC's continued expansion into China but also its commitment to nurturing local talent. Kevin Chang, UFC's senior vice president and head of Asia, expressed his excitement about the upcoming event, "Our first UFC Shanghai event back in 2017 was a historic evening that broke records, created lasting memories, and announced UFC's arrival in mainland China," he said. "We can't wait to put on another incredible show for our passionate fans and showcase the next generation of UFC athletes from the country."
Chang further emphasized the importance of the location, stating, "To be able to host this event back where it all started, in this incredible city where we are headquartered and have made significant investments to change the sport, is a fitting way to write the next chapter of the growth of MMA in China."
Partnership with Endeavor China
The UFC's partnership with Endeavor China has played a pivotal role in the rapid growth of MMA in the country. Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, expressed pride in their contribution, "Endeavor China's partnership with UFC has been instrumental in the rapid growth of MMA in China, and we are proud to play a role in serving passionate combat sports fans across the country," he said.
Huang also shared his excitement about the upcoming event, stating, "Building on our successful debut in Shanghai in 2017, we are excited to bring another sensational event to the city and highlight the promising new wave of UFC athletes representing our country inside the rejuvenated Shanghai Indoor Stadium."
In conclusion, UFC Fight Night Shanghai promises to be an unforgettable night for both fighters and fans alike. The event not only represents a milestone in UFC's ongoing expansion into China but also provides a platform for emerging Asian MMA talent to shine on the global stage.