Turki Al-Sheikh: UFC to Host Next Event in Saudi Arabia in 2024
UFC recently wrapped up a successful event in Saudi Arabia, marking the first time the promotion has hosted a fight in the kingdom. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with UFC President Dana White expressing his enthusiasm for the experience and the remarkable hospitality received.
“It was amazing. Obviously, our first time in the kingdom and my first time here, and it was a great experience. We’re looking forward to the next one,” White stated.
Massive Fan Turnout
The event saw a surprising turnout, with 12,000 fans in attendance until the early hours of the morning. Turki Al-Sheikh, head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, was pleasantly surprised by the large number of enthusiastic fans.
“I am shocked. I know the UFC here has a lot of fans, but you see now it’s changing my mind. I don’t think there is a lot of fans like this, 12,000 until 1 a.m.,” Alalshikh commented.
He expressed his ambition to double the audience size for future events, aiming for 30,000 attendees.
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His Excellency Turki Al-Sheikh wants to host an even bigger UFC card early next year 👏 #UFCSaudiArabia pic.twitter.com/R0wNSep1qt
— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) June 22, 2024
Inclusion of Female Fighters
One significant discussion point for future events in Saudi Arabia is the inclusion of female fighters. Turki Al-Sheikh has requested Dana White to ensure that women are part of the next fight card, reflecting a progressive step towards greater gender equality in sports within the region.
“We are waiting and we want women also in the next fight,” Alalshikh emphasized.
Next Event in Early 2024
Dana White confirmed that UFC plans to return to Saudi Arabia in the first quarter of 2024. This quick return underscores the success of the initial event and the strong demand from fans.
“We’ll be back next year. And the first quarter with us. First quarter next year,” White assured.
The main event for the upcoming Saudi card has already generated excitement, featuring a bout between Khamzat Chimaev and Robert Whittaker. This fight will determine the number one contender for the middleweight title, currently held by Dricus Du Plessis. The co-main event includes a heavyweight clash between Sergei Pavlovich and Alexander Volkov.
