In a groundbreaking announcement during the post-fight press conference for UFC 295, Dana White, the visionary CEO of the UFC, revealed ambitious plans for Noche UFC 2, scheduled for 2024. The chosen venue, The Sphere in Las Vegas, is set to host an event of unprecedented magnitude in celebration of Mexican Independence Day.
The Sphere, a monumental circular building boasting a staggering cost of $2.3 billion, has quickly become a symbol of architectural innovation and technological prowess. Notably, the venue has already witnessed remarkable events, from U2 concerts to exclusive film screenings directed by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Darren Aronofsky.
With its massive LED screens enveloping both the interior and exterior of the structure, coupled with a state-of-the-art sound system, The Sphere has generated considerable buzz regarding its potential to host live sporting events. Dana White, never one to shy away from a challenge, promptly seized the opportunity and confirmed that the UFC is set to stage an unforgettable card in September 2024.
"Mexican Independence Day, we are booked for The Sphere," declared White with palpable enthusiasm. "We are already working on the creative for the show. It's a massive challenge, and I love every minute of it. I can't wait to dive into this thing. As I get more of the pieces of the puzzle put together, I'll let you guys know as it comes along. I'm super excited about this. I love challenges."
The distinctive challenges associated with a UFC production at The Sphere stem from its unique design, featuring a relatively compact staging area and seating that cascades upward, reminiscent of a movie theater. While concerts and film screenings may seem straightforward, orchestrating a live sporting event within such constraints presents an entirely different set of logistical hurdles—a challenge that White is eager to confront head-on.
"Everybody keeps saying to me, 'I don't understand how you're going to put the octagon in there, I don't understand how you're going to do this, I don't understand how you're going to do that,'" White acknowledged. "Remember that I said this to you tonight—I'm going to put on the greatest live combat sports show anybody has ever seen."
UFC 295, held at Madison Square Garden, shares ownership with The Sphere, fostering a partnership that White envisions expanding. With just under a year to prepare, White anticipates delivering a monumental event at The Sphere, further solidifying the venue's reputation as a premier destination for unparalleled entertainment experiences. Despite the reported losses of $98.4 million for The Sphere's first quarter of business, Dana White remains undeterred, embracing the opportunity to elevate the UFC's live events to new heights. As the clock ticks down to September 2024, fight fans worldwide eagerly await the unveiling of this groundbreaking spectacle that promises to redefine the very essence of live combat sports entertainment.