- George Chung
- Oct 17, 2024
- 3 min read
The Octagon is set to make a thrilling comeback! UFC is returning to Sydney with UFC 312, scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the iconic Qudos Bank Arena. Following the incredible success of UFC 293, this event is expected to be even bigger, building on Sydney’s status as a premier destination for global sporting events.
This highly anticipated Pay-Per-View event is part of a strategic four-year, multi-event partnership with the NSW Government, brokered through Destination New South Wales. The return was officially announced at a press conference at Hickson Road Reserve, attended by NSW Premier Chris Minns, Minister for Sport Steve Kamper, UFC Vice President for Australia and New Zealand Peter Kloczko, and former UFC Featherweight Champion and current No.1 contender Alexander Volkanovski.
UFC 312 and Sydney’s Growing Legacy in MMA
Since hosting its first UFC event in 2010, Sydney has quickly become a fan-favorite location for MMA enthusiasts. With an electric atmosphere and packed arenas, the city has welcomed some of the sport’s most significant events, including last year’s UFC 293: ADESANYA vs. STRICKLAND, which saw a sellout crowd of over 18,000 fans.
Peter Kloczko, UFC Vice President for Australia and New Zealand, emphasized the strong collaboration with Destination NSW. “Sydney, Australia – the Octagon is coming back this summer,” he said. “Get ready for another cracking event at Qudos Bank Arena, featuring the best local and international UFC athletes. We value the support from our event partners and hope to deliver another record-breaking result, building off the success of UFC 293 in September 2023.”
A Powerful Tourism Draw and Economic Impact
The benefits of hosting a UFC event in Sydney extend beyond the arena. Premier Chris Minns highlighted the positive impact on the local economy: “UFC’s return to Sydney is another step in us delivering on this election commitment. Last year’s event was a huge success, and we expect next year’s event will match that, showcasing Sydney on the global stage as a top destination for sporting events.”
With fans traveling from across Australia and internationally, the economic impact is substantial. In 2023, UFC 293 generated $57.1 million in total economic impact, including $21.6 million in direct spending by out-of-state visitors on hotels, restaurants, and local attractions. The media coverage reached 975 million households worldwide, spotlighting Sydney as a key player in the global sports market.
Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham noted, “Hosting the UFC Octagon puts Sydney on the world stage, demonstrating that we punch above our weight when it comes to hosting blockbuster events. When the Octagon comes to town, so do thousands of visitors who stay in our hotels, eat in our cafes and restaurants, and visit other attractions.”
UFC and Australia: A Growing Relationship
Since UFC 110 in 2010, Australia has become one of the most dynamic markets for the UFC. The organization has now presented 18 events across the country, with more than 313,000 fans in attendance. From Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena to Perth’s RAC Arena, the UFC has set attendance records and captivated millions of viewers globally, showcasing top-tier fights and fan-favorite athletes.
In partnership with Destination New South Wales, UFC is strengthening Sydney’s position as a sporting capital, offering thrilling action and unforgettable experiences for both fans and athletes alike. Sydney’s own Alexander Volkanovski, a former featherweight champion and one of the top-ranked fighters worldwide, is a testament to the growing impact of UFC in the region, inspiring new generations of fans and fighters.
What to Expect from UFC 312
UFC 312 promises an explosive lineup, featuring top-tier Australian fighters and international stars. With athletes from across the globe ready to step into the Octagon, fans can anticipate intense matchups, thrilling knockouts, and unforgettable moments.
Stay tuned as UFC announces the official fight card in the coming months. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so make sure you secure yours early to witness the heart-pounding action live at Qudos Bank Arena. As Sydney continues to attract global sports events, UFC 312 will be yet another showcase of the city’s vibrant culture and passion for world-class entertainment.
Secure Your Spot at UFC 312 – Sydney’s MMA Extravaganza Awaits!
