Approximately one year after its debut in the City of Light, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is headed back to Paris for a second time. The Las Vegas-based promotion announced on Monday that a UFC event will take place in the French capital at Accor Arena on Sept. 2. No bouts were confirmed for the card.
UFC’s Return to Paris
“After fifteen years in the making, our first show in Paris was insane. Sold out event and the fans and atmosphere were incredible,” UFC president Dana White said in a release. “The arena was packed from the first fight of the night with everyone on their feet and I can’t wait to deliver another unforgettable night.”
The ban on mixed martial arts in France ended in 2020, allowing the promotion to hold its debut event in France with UFC Fight Night 209 on Sept. 3, 2022. That card saw Frenchman and former interim heavyweight champ Ciryl Gane defeat Tai Tuivasa via third-round knockout in the evening’s headliner.
Previous Event Success
Other fighters with French roots who competed on the card included Nassourdine Imavov, William Gomis, Fares Ziam, and Benoit St. Denis. UFC Fight Night 209 was a sellout, with more than 15,000 fans in attendance. The success of the event and the enthusiasm of the local fans have undoubtedly contributed to UFC’s decision to return to Paris for another event.
With no bouts confirmed yet for the upcoming event, fans will have to wait and see which fighters will be showcased in the Accor Arena on Sept. 2. However, given the previous event’s success, it is expected that the second UFC event in Paris will be just as exciting and well-received by the fans.