The UFC held a press conference in Stockholm this afternoon ahead of their weigh-ins at which it was revealed that the promotion had plans to continue their forward momentum through Europe.
Dave Allen, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Europe, Middle East and Africa, took to the stage to announce that the UFC would be holding events in Poland, Germany and Scotland in the coming year.
UFC fighters Jan Blachowicz, Nick Hein and Joanne Calderwood were all present to represent their respective countries for the press conference.
The events in Poland and Scotland will be the first time that the UFC has held cards in those countries and while details were not revealed as to who would be fighting on the Scottish card, which takes place in Glasgow on July 18, it would not be surprising to see at least one Irish face compete.
Two fights were announced for the Polish event, which takes place at the Kraków Arena on April 11, and they’re worthy of the admission price alone.
The main event will be one of the most highly-anticipated rematches in heavyweight history as the returning Mirko Cro Cop takes on Gabriel Gonzaga. The first fight between these MMA legends ended in one of the most surprising knockouts of all time as Gonzaga knocked out the Croatian striker with a headkick back in 2007.
The co-main event for the Kraków fight night will see Poland’s own Jan Blachowicz take on Jimi Manuwa in an intriguing light heavyweight showdown.
Speaking about the announcements, Allen said: “We are wholly committed to the growth of mixed martial arts in these regions.
“And we understand that in order to facilitate and drive this growth, we need to reach new markets and actively explore new territories.
“2015 is about bringing fans closer to the sport they follow so fervently and to the athletes that they support so passionately. This year, we will host events that will be remembered for years to come, and we intend to place cities like Kraków, Glasgow and Berlin firmly on the map when it comes to the sport of mixed martial arts.”
Colour us excited.
