In a thrilling announcement for combat sports enthusiasts, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has declared its return to China with UFC Fight Night Shanghai. The event is slated for December 9 and will take place at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium.
Presented by Rio Strong
The event is presented by Rio Strong, a renowned sparkling wine brand. This marks a unique collaboration between the worlds of sports and luxury beverages, adding an extra layer of glamour to the high-octane event.
Road to UFC Season 2 Finale
One of the main highlights of the night will be the finals of 'Road to UFC' season 2. This knockout tournament has been a platform for showcasing Asian Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) talent. The event will feature four final bouts on the preliminary card, promising an evening filled with adrenaline-pumping action.
Victors from these bouts will be rewarded with coveted UFC contracts, marking a significant milestone in their professional careers. These fights provide a golden opportunity for emerging fighters to make their mark on the international stage.
Fourth UFC Event in Mainland China
This event signifies the fourth UFC showdown in mainland China and the second in Shanghai. It stands as a testament to the growing popularity of UFC and MMA in the country. A lineup of Chinese fighters is expected to feature prominently, further solidifying the nation's presence in the sport.
While the headlining bout is yet to be confirmed, fans are eagerly anticipating an exciting matchup to cap off the night.
Endeavor China and UFC: A Fruitful Partnership
"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," said Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China. He further expressed his excitement about bringing another sensational event to Shanghai and highlighting the promising new wave of UFC athletes representing China.
UFC's Growth in Asia
Kevin Chang, UFC's senior vice president and head of Asia, reflected on the first UFC Shanghai event in 2017 as a historic evening that broke records and 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," he stated.
Hosting the event in Shanghai, where the UFC is headquartered and has made significant investments, is seen as a fitting way to write the next chapter of the growth of MMA in China.
With this exciting lineup and significant implications for the future of Asian MMA, UFC Fight Night Shanghai promises to be an unforgettable night of action-packed fights and thrilling victories.