UFC Paris not designated as a numbered event - reasons elucidated
In the world of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), events are categorised into three distinct groups: "Fight Night", themed events, and numbered galas. These categories serve different purposes and offer unique experiences for fans.
Antoine Ronté, a journalist at L'Équipe, explains the differences between numbered and non-numbered UFC events. According to Ronté, UFC Paris, scheduled for September 6, 2025, at the Accor Arena in Paris, France, falls into the category of themed events.
Themed events are designed to attract new audiences, and UFC Paris is no exception. These events, unlike numbered UFC galas, do not involve a world title belt. Instead, they focus on providing a unique and exciting experience for fans, often held abroad in cities such as Paris or London.
In contrast, numbered UFC galas often feature a world title bout and are primarily reserved for the North American market, with pay-per-view events being the norm. These events are considered more prestigious and carry a greater weight in the UFC's rankings.
However, the logic behind the categorization of UFC events sometimes has exceptions that blur the lines. For instance, UFC Paris is not a numbered event, but it is expected to be a sold-out venue with a stacked card, serving as a showcase in Europe.
"Fight Night" events, regular occurrences often held in the United States, are a different beast altogether. These events, unlike themed and numbered galas, do not involve a title belt and are broadcast on ESPN.
UFC organizes events in these three categories to cater to different audiences and markets. The economic heart of the UFC organization is in North America, but events like UFC Paris are crucial for expanding the UFC's reach in Europe and attracting new fans.
UFC Paris is not a matter of prestige but a strategic decision aimed at growing the UFC's fanbase and increasing its global presence. With the main card starting at 9:00 PM local time on September 6, 2025, fans can expect an exciting night of mixed martial arts action in the heart of Paris.
