UFC Returns to China
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make its much-anticipated return to China. The event, UFC Fight Night Shanghai, will take place on December 9 at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium. This marks the fourth UFC event in mainland China and the second in Shanghai, signaling a continued commitment to the growth of mixed martial arts (MMA) in the region.
A Showcase of Asian MMA Talent
UFC Fight Night Shanghai is not just another event on the UFC calendar; it carries significant implications for the future of MMA in Asia. The event will feature the finals of Road to UFC season 2, a knockout tournament designed to unearth and showcase emerging Asian MMA talent. Four final bouts will occur on the preliminary card, with winners being awarded the coveted UFC contracts.
While the headlining bout is yet to be confirmed, the event is expected to prominently feature a lineup of Chinese fighters. This approach underlines UFC's commitment to nurturing local talent and growing the sport within the country.
Partnership with Rio Strong
Rio Strong, a sparkling wine brand, has been announced as the presenting partner for the event. The partnership underscores the appeal of UFC events to a broad range of commercial stakeholders.
Industry Voices
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, spoke about the importance of the partnership between his company and UFC. "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 further expressed his excitement about the upcoming event, saying, "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 said.
Chang further emphasized the importance of the upcoming event for the growth of MMA in 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," he stated. "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."
A New Chapter
With the return of UFC to Shanghai, the next chapter in the growth of MMA in China is about to be written. The event promises not only to deliver thrilling fights but also to showcase the future of the sport in the region. As both the fighters and fans eagerly anticipate the night, one thing is certain: December 9 will mark another significant milestone in the history of MMA in China.