UFC 306 is set to be an extraordinary event as it takes place at The Sphere in Las Vegas, marking the first live sporting event at this $2.3 billion venue known for its wraparound 16K LED screens and immersive sound. UFC President Dana White decided to bring the UFC here after witnessing a U2 concert at The Sphere alongside NFL legend Tom Brady. The venue, owned by the same company behind Madison Square Garden, offers a unique setting that has captivated the sports world.

Innovative Production and Cultural Tribute

With the venue secured, UFC began planning an elaborate production centered around Mexican Independence Day. The event is being produced in collaboration with Glenn Weiss, known for producing live shows like the Oscars and the Emmys. A key feature of UFC 306 is the inclusion of six short films that celebrate Mexico’s contributions to combat sports, directed by Carlos Lopez Estrada. These 90-second vignettes will air between each main card fight, adding a rich cultural layer to the evening ?.

Craig Borsari, UFC’s Chief Content Officer, explained the approach:

“At the highest level, we were trying to think about how to put on a live MMA fight — 10 fights throughout the night — without taking away from the action or slowing down too much, while also telling another story about the Mexican people and their culture, because it’s rich and it’s deep.”

Each fight will be presented in a different “world,” projected onto the massive curved LED screen inside the arena, creating a fully immersive experience for the audience.

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Ticket Prices and Unique Setup

The costs of UFC 306 are steep, with the initial budget ballooning from $8 million to over $20 million as the event neared. Ticket prices reflect the event’s grandeur, with the cheapest seats starting at around $3,500 and reaching over $5,000 for premium sections. The Sphere’s design offers a unique viewing experience, positioning the octagon at one end like a stage, which differs significantly from the traditional center setup of UFC events. This configuration, combined with the visual spectacle of the LED screens, is designed to enhance the overall fan experience.

A One-Time Spectacle?

Despite the high costs and UFC’s existing agreements with MGM, White has expressed his belief in the event’s potential to reshape how sports and entertainment intersect.

“I said, ‘I’m doing this.’ I didn’t give a shit what the budget was, I’m doing this,” White stated. “I truly believe that this is going to be a game-changer, where sports and entertainment truly come together for the first time ever. And I think a lot of other people are going to see this, and I think they’re going to start to change the way they build these arenas.”

While UFC 306 at The Sphere is currently planned as a one-time event due to existing contracts with other venues, White hinted that similar endeavors could occur if new technologies emerge, showing his commitment to pushing the boundaries of sports presentation.

For more details on UFC 306 and its production, visit MMAnytt.se