Fans frequently tune in to UFC or boxing events each weekend. While it’s common for these events to overlap, it becomes significant when a major pay-per-view (PPV) from both sports takes place simultaneously, potentially impacting viewership and attendance. As one of the top MMA promotions with a massive fan base, the UFC often competes with boxing’s biggest names, especially when major stars from both sports fight on the same day.
On September 14th, fans will witness such a clash as UFC hosts UFC Noche (UFC 306), one of its biggest events, while boxing superstar Alvarez also fights that same day. However, this isn’t the first time a major UFC PPV has gone head-to-head with a major boxing event.
What Happened When UFC 244 And Canelo Alvarez’s Fight Overlapped?
When UFC 244 and Canelo Alvarez’s fight coincided on the same night, it generated a lot of excitement in the combat sports community. The Mexican star was very confident about the numbers of his event, but the UFC also had strong confidence. Dana White even remarked at the pre-fight press conference that it was a bold move if they planned to go head-to-head. He said,
“If they time it right and they do this thing the right way. It could be very much like the other night. when Gaethje fought ‘Cowboy’, and then the Fury fight was on after. If they time it right, it could work out. But if they want to go head to head, they’re fu**ing n***.”
The event featured the much-anticipated fight between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz for the BMF title, which created a major buzz among MMA fans. This was a particularly notable event as Dana White introduced the first-ever title that could be contested by challenging the BMF titleholder.
In contrast, the Mexican moved up two weight classes to fight Sergey Kovalev for the WBO light heavyweight title, an anticipated bout that aimed to captivate boxing fans and marked Canelo’s rise through multiple weight classes.
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To avoid competing directly with the UFC, DAZN, which had invested heavily in Canelo, chose to delay his fight instead of competing for viewers. They even had the MGM Grand Garden Arena show UFC 244 for fans who were waiting for Canelo’s bout.
That was an unforgettable experience for fans. Now, as September approaches, they might be recalling the clash between Canelo and the UFC event. On September 14th, UFC 306 and Canelo’s fight against Edgar Berlanga will once again overlap. Fans are left wondering which event will come out on top this time.
Also Read: Canelo Alvarez’s Training With Teofimo Lopez Leaves Fans Seeing A Future Star – “Legendary Link Up”
Will UFC 306 Surpass Canelo Alvarez’s Fight In Popularity?
Previously, Tapology reported that UFC 244 had a live gate revenue of $6,575,996 with an attendance of 20,143, though PPV buys were not disclosed. In comparison, Boxing Scene noted that the DAZN-streamed boxing event generated $8.173 million in live gate revenue from 10,005 tickets sold.
This time, UFC is dropping an epic fight card to go head-to-head with Canelo’s event. The lineup includes two major title fights: Sean O’Malley will defend his bantamweight title against Merab Dvalishvili in the main event. In contrast, the co-main event features a trilogy bout between current flyweight champ Alexa Grasso and former champ Valentina Shevchenko. UFC CEO Dana White hyped it up to showcase combat history in Mexico, from past to future.
Conversely, Canelo revealed that clashing with the UFC is intentional because Mexican Independence Day means a lot to him, and he wants to deliver for his fans. Despite this, fans are not thrilled about the pay-per-view price for Canelo vs. Berlanga.
Also Read: Canelo Alvarez Vs. Edgar Berlanga PPV Price Set At $89.99, Boxing Fans Criticize The Pricing
Fans Unhappy With High PPV Prices For UFC And Canelo’s Events
Fans are frustrated with the $89.99 pay-per-view price for Canelo’s fight, deeming it too high. Meanwhile, the PPV price for UFC 306 hasn’t been announced yet. The average UFC PPV is $79.99, so fans expect a similar cost. Additionally, the high ticket prices for UFC are partly due to the venue. The Sphere provides a unique experience that contributes to the elevated costs.
Both UFC and boxing fans are facing steep prices, and this issue remains unresolved. Despite this, the excitement for both events is substantial. Only time will tell which event will ultimately have better PPV or ticket sales. The clash between these two events is shaping up to be thrilling. Will Canelo’s fight be delayed again for the UFC, or will they go head-to-head? Only time will reveal which event will dominate the night.
