UFC Explodes in Popularity

by Jill Hanks – Sept. 10, 2009 05:19 PM
12 News

The Ultimate Fighting Championship, or UFC is a professional league for Mixed Martial Arts.

While controversial for its brutality, it is the fastest growing sport in the World. The Valley is home to several UFC fighters and the sport is a hit with fans here.

Back in 2001 the current owners of the UFC, bought the nearly bankrupt organization for $2 million. Eight years later, its worth has skyrocketed to an estimated $1 billion.

UFC President Dana White tells 12 News he knows Arizona fans are clamoring for a fight to be held in the Valley.

“There’s so many fans that are terrorizing me to bring an event down to Arizona and I promise we’re coming,” White says. “I have no clue exactly when but I guarantee this, we are coming, I promise.”

Tempe’s Arizona Combat Sports is home to some of the best fighters in the World.

Ryan Bader, former ASU All-American Wrestler and Aaron Simpson, former ASU Wrestling Coach, are two who have UFC Contracts. They take you into the Octagon to demonstrate the moves, the rules, and the basics of the sport they love