UFC Makes a Triumphant Return to China
Excitement is brewing in the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) announces its return to China. The UFC Fight Night Shanghai, set for December 9, will be held at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium. This event marks the fourth UFC event in mainland China and the second in Shanghai, demonstrating the UFC's growing foothold in the region.
Event Presented by Rio Strong
The event is being presented by Rio Strong, a prominent sparkling wine brand. This partnership underscores the prestige and glamour associated with this high-profile MMA event. However, the headlining bout remains unconfirmed, adding an air of suspense to the proceedings.
Road to UFC Season 2 Finals
One of the main attractions of the night will be the finals of Road to UFC season 2. This knockout tournament has been instrumental in discovering and nurturing Asian MMA talent. The preliminary card will feature four final bouts, each promising a thrilling display of skill and strategy. The stakes are high, as winners of these bouts will be awarded coveted UFC contracts, providing a stepping stone to international fame and recognition.
Spotlight on Chinese Fighters
A lineup of Chinese fighters is expected to take center stage at the event. Their participation not only reflects the growth of MMA in China but also highlights the country's contribution to the sport on a global scale.
Voices from the Industry
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, expressed his pride in the role his company has played in the rapid expansion of MMA in China through its 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."
Building on their successful debut in Shanghai in 2017, Huang is excited about bringing another sensational event to the city. He added, "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, reminisced about their first UFC Shanghai event back 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."
Chang is eager to put on another incredible show for their passionate fans and showcase the next generation of UFC athletes from the country. "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 shared.
Hosting this event in Shanghai, where UFC has made significant investments and where it all started, is a fitting way to write the next chapter of the growth of MMA in China, according to Chang.
With all these developments, UFC Fight Night Shanghai promises to be an unforgettable night of action-packed fights and a celebration of the sport's growth in China.