As the world of combat sports continues to evolve, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is once again making its presence felt in the East. The UFC is set to return to China with a thrilling event - UFC Fight Night Shanghai on December 9.
Event Details
The much-anticipated event will be held at the renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium, brought to you by Rio Strong, a renowned sparkling wine brand. This marks the fourth UFC event in mainland China and the second one in the bustling city of Shanghai. With a lineup of Chinese fighters expected to feature prominently, this event promises to be a celebration of local talent.
Road to UFC Season 2 Finals
One of the highlights of the evening will be the finals of the Road to UFC season 2. This knockout tournament has been a platform for showcasing Asian MMA talent. The four final bouts of the tournament will take place on the preliminary card. Winners of these bouts will not just walk away with the glory of victory but will also be awarded UFC contracts, marking a significant milestone in their fighting careers.
Headlining Bout Yet to Be Confirmed
While the excitement builds up, the headlining bout of the night remains a mystery. UFC fans worldwide are eagerly waiting for the announcement, adding an element of suspense to the already electrifying atmosphere.
Voices from the Leadership
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, expressed pride in their partnership with UFC. He stated, "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."
Huang further added, "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."
Kevin Chang, UFC's senior vice president and head of Asia, echoed Huang's sentiments. "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 reminisced.
Chang further shared his anticipation for the upcoming event, saying, "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." He also acknowledged the significance of hosting the event in Shanghai, where UFC has made significant investments. "To be able to host this event back where it all started is a fitting way to write the next chapter of the growth of MMA in China," he concluded.
With its return to China, UFC continues to foster the growth of MMA in the region, providing a platform for local talent to shine on a global stage. As we countdown to December 9, the excitement is palpable, and the expectations are sky-high.