In a thrilling announcement for fight fans, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is returning to China with UFC Fight Night Shanghai, slated for December 9. This marks the fourth UFC event in mainland China and the second in Shanghai, a testament to the growing popularity of mixed martial arts (MMA) in the country.
Event Details
The much-anticipated event will take place at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium. Adding to the glamour of the occasion, Rio Strong, a renowned sparkling wine brand, has been announced as the presenter of the event. However, the headlining bout is yet to be confirmed, building suspense among eager fans.
Road to UFC Season 2
A highlight of the night will undoubtedly be the finals of Road to UFC season 2, an intense knockout tournament designed to showcase Asian MMA talent. Four final bouts are set to occur on the preliminary card, promising a night filled with adrenaline-pumping action. The stakes are high, as winners of these bouts will be awarded UFC contracts, marking a significant milestone in their fighting careers.
Chinese Fighters in the Spotlight
A lineup of Chinese fighters is expected to feature prominently at the event, demonstrating the depth of local talent in the sport. This emphasis on local fighters not only boosts the profile of the athletes but also contributes to the rapid growth of MMA within China.
Industry Comments
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, expressed pride in his organization's partnership with UFC, stating, "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." Building on the success of the first Shanghai event in 2017, Huang further stated, "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, also shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming event. Recalling the first UFC Shanghai event in 2017, he said, "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 further added, "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."
In conclusion, UFC Fight Night Shanghai promises to be an exciting night of action-packed bouts, showcasing both the rising talent in Asian MMA and the growing popularity of the sport in China. The anticipation is high, and fans are eagerly awaiting what is sure to be a memorable night.