The UFC’s dynamic CEO Dana White is no stranger to taking risks. His latest venture, UFC 306: Riyadh Season Noche UFC, is set to take place at the Sphere in Las Vegas—a venue that represents a staggering $2.3 billion in revenue that White intends to make the event of surprise on Mexican Independence Day, where he intends to be amazing And it’s for the UFC to go down in history. However, as the event draws closer, the dream is about to become a nightmare.
After the success of the first event, White’s excitement when he announced that UFC Noche would return for a second UFC season was palpable. But the stakes were much higher this time, as the event was scheduled as a pay-per-view (PPV) surprise at one of the most talked about arenas in the world but trouble broke out just two weeks before the event coming.
Struggling Ticket Sales: A Red Flag for UFC 306
UFC 306 was originally priced high, with ticket prices ranging from $3,000 to a staggering $17,507. UFC events are known for their expensive ticket prices, but these prices have continued to push the limits. But despite heavy publicity for the event, ticket sales have been disappointing. According to reports, more than 2,900 tickets remain unsold, severely undercutting promotional prices.
Those once high prices have now been reduced. The luxury seat, once priced at $17,507, is now available for $8,807. Meanwhile, the cheapest ticket has been reduced to $757.The promotion also faces the awkward condition of being a Verified Resale Ticket that costs an incredible $99,000. This drop in sales has raised questions: why does an event that struggles to fill seats promise to be a surprise?
Canelo Alvarez Factor: An opposing act attracts attention
One of the main hurdles UFC 306 faces is boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez’s competition. On the same night as UFC 306, Alvarez defends his title against Edgar Berlanga, a match that has grabbed a lot of attention. White’s partner in the event, HE Turki Alalshikh, once boldly predicted that UFC 306 would feature more than the Alvarez fight. However, Alvarez seems to have turned the tables. According to reports, the Alvarez fight is nearly sold out, in stark contrast to UFC 306’s bout.
Despite White’s efforts to downplay any rivalry with Alvarez, his influence is undeniable. Fans are more interested in Alvarez fights, while UFC 306 lacks the star power necessary to draw huge crowds. Featuring Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili, the title fails to generate the expected excitement. Many fans feel the card lacks big names and have expressed displeasure with their high ticket prices.
Star Power Missing: UFC 306 Suffers Without Big Names
For an event of this magnitude, the UFC’s lack of major stars is glaring. White attempted to add star power to the UFC 306 card, with names like Conor McGregor and Jon Jones floating around as potential headliners. Long one of the biggest attractions in the sport, McGregor expressed interest in fighting at the Sphere. His opponent, Michael Chandler, shared this excitement, calling the round a “great” opportunity. But White ruled McGregor out for the year, leaving the event without its biggest star.
The UFC 306 roster also includes none other than UFC icon Jon Jones. It’s anticipated that Jones will soon return to the Octagon following months of recuperation from a shoulder issue. Nonetheless, it is more likely that he will host a Madison Square Garden event in November than UFC 306. UFC 306 will now be devoid of a major match that would boost attendance and pay-per-view figures.
