UFC Set to Host Major Pay-Per-View Event in Florida: What MMA Fans Need to Know

The Sunshine State is about to heat up even more as the UFC confirms plans for an explosive pay-per-view event coming to Florida later this year. As someone who’s covered the octagon for over a decade, I can tell you this is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated cards of the season.

Florida has become something of a second home for the UFC in recent years, especially during the pandemic when Dana White and company set up shop at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville. But this upcoming event promises to bring a new level of excitement to MMA fans across the state.

Why Florida Has Become an MMA Hotspot

It’s no accident that Florida keeps drawing major UFC events. The state boasts some of the most passionate MMA fans in the country, routinely selling out arenas from Miami to Jacksonville. Florida’s fighter-friendly athletic commission and absence of state income tax also make it attractive for both the promotion and athletes.

Beyond that, Florida has developed into a training mecca, with elite gyms like American Top Team in Coconut Creek and Sanford MMA in Deerfield Beach producing championship-caliber fighters year after year.

“Florida fans bring an energy that’s hard to match,” UFC President Dana White told me last month. “When we bring a big card to Florida, we know the atmosphere is going to be electric.”

Potential Matchups That Could Headline

While the UFC hasn’t officially announced the main event, several intriguing possibilities are being discussed behind the scenes. Sources close to the promotion suggest we might see:

• A welterweight title fight featuring the winner of Edwards vs. Belal
• The long-awaited return of Jon Jones (if his heavyweight title defense against Stipe Miocic falls through)
• A potential Florida homecoming for Jorge Masvidal, despite his retirement (never say never in this sport)

Local Fighters Expected on the Card

The UFC typically loves to stack cards with regional talent, and Florida has no shortage of world-class fighters. Expect to see names like:

What This Means for Local MMA Fans

If you’re an MMA enthusiast living in Florida, get ready for what could be the sporting event of the year. I’ve covered UFC events across the country, and there’s something special about the energy when the octagon comes to town.

Local businesses should prepare for an influx of visitors, as these events typically draw fans from across the state and beyond. Hotels near the venue are already reporting increased bookings for the rumored dates, even before an official announcement.

Tips for Attending Your First UFC Event

Never been to a live UFC event? Here’s what you should know:

• Buy tickets early – Florida events sell out fast, often within hours of going on sale
• Plan for the whole weekend – Between weigh-ins, fan experiences, and fighter meet-and-greets, the UFC takes over the host city for days
• Keep an eye out for fighters – You’ll often spot UFC athletes at local restaurants and gyms in the days leading up to the event
• Don’t just focus on the main event – Some of the most memorable moments happen in preliminary bouts

The Economic Impact of Major UFC Events

When the UFC comes to town, it’s not just fight fans who win. These events typically generate millions in economic impact for host cities. From hospitality to transportation to food and beverage, virtually every sector of the local economy feels the positive effects.

During the UFC 261 event in Jacksonville, local officials estimated an economic impact exceeding $17.7 million over just a three-day period. With tourism already a cornerstone of Florida’s economy, the addition of major sporting events like this only strengthens the state’s position.

The Bottom Line: Mark Your Calendars

While we await the official announcement with exact dates, venue, and fight card, Florida MMA fans should start preparing now. If history is any indication, this event will sell out quickly once tickets become available.

I’ll be updating this story as more details emerge, but one thing’s certain: the UFC’s return to Florida will be one of the must-see sporting events of the year. Whether you’re a die-hard MMA fan or just curious about experiencing the spectacle live, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Are you planning to attend the upcoming UFC event in Florida? What matchups would you most want to see? Drop a comment below or hit me up on social media – I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Source: UFC Press Office, local athletic commission reports, and insider sources within the promotion.