In a significant development for the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to return to China. The much-anticipated event, UFC Fight Night Shanghai, is scheduled for December 9 at the recently renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium.
Presented by Rio Strong
The event will be presented by Rio Strong, a prominent sparkling wine brand known for its association with high-profile sporting events. This collaboration adds a touch of glamour and prestige to what promises to be an exhilarating night of combat sports.
Road to UFC Season 2 Finals
A key highlight of the event will be the finals of Road to UFC season 2. This knockout tournament has garnered attention across Asia as it provides a platform for emerging MMA talents to showcase their skills. The final four bouts will take place on the preliminary card, with each bout winner earning the coveted prize of a UFC contract. This opportunity could potentially catapult these fighters into the global MMA scene.
A Milestone Event in China
This event marks the fourth UFC fight night in mainland China and the second in the city of Shanghai. It's a testament to the growing popularity of UFC and MMA in the country. A lineup of Chinese fighters is expected to feature prominently, providing local fans with homegrown talent to cheer for. However, the headlining bout is yet to be confirmed, adding an element of suspense and anticipation.
Endeavor China and UFC: A Fruitful Partnership
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, has lauded the partnership between his organization and UFC. "Endeavor China's partnership with UFC has been instrumental in the rapid growth of MMA in China," Huang said. "We are proud to play a role in serving passionate combat sports fans across the country."
Reflecting on the success of UFC's debut in Shanghai back in 2017, Huang expressed his excitement about returning to the city. "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," he added.
UFC's Commitment to Growth in Asia
Kevin Chang, UFC's senior vice president and head of Asia, also spoke about the significance of this event. He recalled the historic first UFC Shanghai event in 2017, which he described as a record-breaking evening that announced UFC's arrival in mainland China.
"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 said. His words underscored UFC's commitment to nurturing local talent and growing the sport within the region.
Hosting the event in Shanghai, where UFC has made significant investments, is seen as a fitting way to write the next chapter of the growth of MMA in China, according to Chang. This return to the city signals UFC's ongoing commitment to its Chinese fan base and its dedication to the development of MMA in the country.