Get ready for live grapples, vicious attacks and bloody noses this autumn when mixed martial arts tournament UFC comes to Macau – the first time it’s ever graced China’s shores. The Ultimate Fighting Championship has just announced an event at The Venetian Macao’s CotaiArena on November 10. It’s the UFC’s second foray into Asia after several appearances in Japan – and it should herald a new dawn for MMA lovers in the region.



Fans of the Legend tournaments in Hong Kong and Macau have satiated their need for bloodsport over the past few years – however now it’s got competition in terms of popularity, especially if UFC becomes a permanent fixture. There have been nine Legend tournaments hosted in both Hong Kong and Macau featuring fighters from the Asia Pacific, but the USA-based UFC should put MMA on a global scale, pitting the highest-ranked fighters in the world against each other. The UFC has a huge following worldwide – with programming available in 150 countries. Past stars have included Brock Lesnar and Ken Shamrock, both of WWE wrestling fame in the USA, as well as more current masters Tito Ortiz and Jon Jones.



The UFC’s fanbase in China has been growing, with more than 450 million television viewers and an additional 500 viewers through internet portals. So it has only made sense for UFC to head to the birthplace of martial arts. While there’s only one Chinese fighter currently in the ranks – featherweight Zhang Tiequan from Mongolia – there are some pro Mainland fighters who could soon become candidates for the UFC’s Macau event. You like blood and sweat? Don’t miss it!

Ticketing information and fight card announcements will be confirmed a later dat – but head to www.ufc.com for the most up-to-date info.



Andrea Yu