Anticipation is building as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) announces its return to China with UFC Fight Night Shanghai, set to take place on December 9. The event will be held at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium, presenting an exciting opportunity for fans and fighters alike.
A Spotlight on Asian Talent
The upcoming event will showcase the finale of "Road to UFC" season 2, a knockout tournament designed to spotlight emerging Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) talent from across Asia. The competition has been fierce, culminating in four final bouts scheduled for the preliminary card. The stakes are high, with winners being awarded coveted UFC contracts, marking a significant milestone in their professional careers.
Rio Strong Presents UFC Fight Night Shanghai
In a unique collaboration, Rio Strong, a well-known sparkling wine brand, has stepped up as the presenting sponsor for the event. This partnership underscores the growing popularity and prestige of UFC events, attracting interest from diverse sectors beyond sports.
Fourth UFC Event in Mainland China
This marks the fourth time that the UFC has hosted an event in mainland China, and the second time in Shanghai. The previous UFC Shanghai event in 2017 was a historic evening that broke records and announced UFC's arrival in mainland China, according to Kevin Chang, UFC's senior vice president and head of Asia.
Chang expressed his enthusiasm about the upcoming event, stating, "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."
Highlighting Chinese Fighters
A lineup of Chinese fighters is expected to feature prominently in the event, showcasing the depth and diversity of MMA talent in the country. However, the headlining bout remains unconfirmed, adding an element of suspense to the anticipation.
Endeavor China's Partnership with UFC
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, highlighted the significance of their partnership with UFC in promoting the growth of MMA in China. "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 Huang.
He further added, "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."
The upcoming UFC Fight Night Shanghai promises to be a thrilling showcase of Asian MMA talent, a testament to the growing popularity of the sport in China, and a celebration of the continued collaboration between Endeavor China and UFC.