As the chill of December begins to settle in, the heat of combat sports is set to return to China with the highly anticipated UFC Fight Night Shanghai. The event, scheduled for December 9, will take place at the newly renovated Shanghai Indoor Stadium, a fitting venue for an event of this magnitude.
A Sparkling Sponsor
Rio Strong, a renowned sparkling wine brand, has taken up the mantle of presenting the event. This partnership adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to the brutal yet captivating world of mixed martial arts (MMA).
The 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 a breeding ground for Asian MMA talent, providing a platform for fighters to showcase their skills and make their mark on the sport.
The preliminary card will feature four final bouts, each one carrying high stakes. The winners of these matches will not only receive the glory of victory but also be awarded UFC contracts - a dream come true for any aspiring MMA fighter.
UFC's Growing Presence in China
This event marks the fourth UFC event in mainland China and the second in the bustling city of Shanghai. It's a testament to the growing popularity of UFC in the country and the increasing number of Chinese fighters making their presence felt in the sport.
While the headlining bout is still under wraps, fans can expect a strong lineup of Chinese fighters. These homegrown talents are expected to feature prominently, adding local flavor and excitement to the international event.
Voices from the Top
Sum Huang, CEO of Endeavor China, expressed pride in the role his company has played in the rapid 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," he stated.
Kevin Chang, UFC's senior vice president and head of Asia, echoed these sentiments. He reminisced about the first UFC Shanghai event back in 2017, which was a historic evening that 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 said.
As the countdown to UFC Fight Night Shanghai begins, the excitement is palpable. With new talents ready to shine and established fighters eager to prove their mettle, it promises to be an unforgettable night of action.