UFC Returns to China with Fight Night Shanghai
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to make a triumphant return to China, presenting UFC Fight Night Shanghai on December 9. The event is slated to take place at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium, marking the fourth UFC event in mainland China and the second in Shanghai.
Rio Strong Presents Road to UFC Season 2 Finals
Sponsored by Rio Strong, a renowned sparkling wine brand, the event will prominently feature the finals of Road to UFC season 2. This knockout tournament is designed to spotlight Asian Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) talent, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills.
Four final bouts will be staged on the preliminary card, with winners being awarded coveted UFC contracts. This opportunity not only elevates the fighters' careers but also contributes to the growth and development of MMA in Asia.
Chinese Fighters to Dominate the Lineup
A lineup of Chinese fighters is expected to dominate the event, reflecting the growing prominence of local talent in the international MMA scene. However, the headlining bout remains unconfirmed, adding an element of suspense to the upcoming event.
Endeavor China and UFC: A Fruitful Partnership
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, has lauded the partnership between his organization and 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."
He 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."
UFC's Commitment to Chinese Fans
Kevin Chang, UFC's senior vice president and head of Asia, reminisced about the first UFC event in Shanghai. 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 expressed his anticipation for the forthcoming 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." He also highlighted the significance of hosting the event in Shanghai, where UFC has made substantial investments to change the sport, noting it as a fitting way to write the next chapter of the growth of MMA in China.