A recent report from 7News Australia has sparked discussions about ticket sales for the upcoming UFC event in Perth, suggesting that the RAC Arena is “only about half full” and that tickets are being discounted. During a press conference, Dave Shaw, Senior Vice President for International Operations at UFC, addressed these claims.
According to TicketTek, the official ticket distributor for the event, while the event is not yet sold out, ticket sales are higher than reported. Currently, available tickets are priced between $75 and $100. The event is set to feature a significant light heavyweight bout between rising star Carlos Ulberg and former two-time title challenger Dominick Reyes.
UFC’s Long-Term Vision in Australia
Shaw emphasized the UFC’s commitment to the Australian market, highlighting the organization’s strategic long-term approach since its debut in the country 15 years ago. “Listen, from the very beginning, we’ve taken the long run, playing the long game with Australia,” Shaw stated. He recalled UFC’s first event in Australia in 2010 with UFC 110 and the subsequent establishment of an office in 2014.
He further noted the milestone event in 2015, which featured Ronda Rousey and Holly Holm in Melbourne, marking the largest event in UFC history at the time. Shaw also mentioned the overturning of the octagon ban in Western Australia in 2017 and the memorable Fight of the Year in 2023 between Alexander Volkanovski and Islam Makhachev.
Challenges and Opportunities
The announcement comes as the UFC continues to expand its presence in Australia, a country known for its passion for sports. Shaw expressed confidence in the growth of mixed martial arts (MMA) in the region, stating, “We know you guys are a sports-mad country, and for us, you often hear Dana talking about how MMA is going to be the biggest sport in the world.”
Shaw also highlighted the unique aspects of the upcoming event, noting the inclusion of more regional athletes, including Australian and Kiwi fighters, than in previous cards. “This is also a pretty special card,” he remarked, underscoring the UFC’s dedication to showcasing local talent.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
The UFC’s journey in Australia has been marked by significant milestones and challenges. The organization’s ability to navigate regulatory hurdles, such as the octagon ban, and its commitment to delivering high-profile events have contributed to its growing popularity in the region.
Meanwhile, the potential for MMA to become a major sport in Australia remains promising. The country’s rich sporting culture and the UFC’s strategic efforts to engage local audiences suggest a bright future for the sport.
As the UFC prepares for the event in Perth, the focus remains on filling the RAC Arena and delivering an unforgettable experience for fans. The organization’s long-term vision and commitment to the Australian market are expected to play a crucial role in achieving these goals.
Looking ahead, the UFC’s ability to adapt to market dynamics and leverage its global brand will be key to sustaining its growth in Australia. With a strong lineup and a dedicated fan base, the upcoming event in Perth is poised to be another step forward in the UFC’s journey down under.
