A general view of the Octagon prior to the start of the UFC 250 event at UFC APEX on June 06, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
When was UFC Apex officially opened? How big is the facility in terms of area?
UFC Apex, a cutting-edge live events and production center located in Enterprise, Nevada, stands as a testament to the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s (UFC) commitment to innovation and performance. Since its official opening on June 18, 2019, this facility has become a crucial component of the UFC’s operations, hosting live events and studio shows that have thrilled fight fans worldwide.
Situated at 6650 El Camino Road in Enterprise, Nevada, UFC Apex operates as both a live event venue and a production center. Owned and operated by the UFC, the facility was strategically chosen due to its close proximity to the UFC Performance Institute, the company’s headquarters located just across the street. The UFC Apex was purposefully designed to accommodate a wide range of activities, from hosting exhilarating live events to producing captivating studio shows that offer fans an intimate look into the world of mixed martial arts.
The doors of the UFC Apex swung open on June 18, 2019, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the UFC’s event infrastructure. Notably, the opening of the facility occurred in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the relocation of numerous events. As part of this shift, all U.S.-based UFC events found a home at the Apex, albeit behind closed doors. This adaptation allowed the sport to continue in a safe and controlled environment, a testament to the UFC’s dedication to its athletes and fans.
Spanning an impressive 130,000 square feet (12,000 m2), the UFC Apex is equipped with a 25-foot diameter Octagon variant, specifically tailored for smaller events and venues. This choice, as opposed to the standard 30-foot diameter version, sparked intriguing observations among fight enthusiasts. Early fight data and fan speculation indicated that the utilization of the smaller Octagon led to more intense, fast-paced striking exchanges and an increase in fight finishes, contributing to an even more electrifying viewer experience.
As the UFC Apex became a focal point for the organization’s events, the facility continued to evolve. By July 2022, the Apex took a pivotal step by opening its doors to limited public spectators, allowing fans to once again witness the action up close and personal. This move bridged the gap between the virtual and physical fan experiences, underscoring the UFC’s commitment to its loyal supporters.
Looking ahead, the UFC Apex has exciting plans on the horizon. Recent reports from late January 2022 indicated that the facility is gearing up to expand its seating capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 people. Alongside this expansion, the Apex is set to introduce additional amenities such as food and alcohol services, a ticket sales outlet, and a souvenir shop, enhancing the overall fan experience. The addition of extra parking facilities further showcases the UFC’s forward-thinking approach to providing unparalleled convenience to its attendees.
In conclusion, the UFC Apex stands as a symbol of the UFC’s dedication to pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional entertainment to fight fans around the globe. Since its inauguration on June 18, 2019, this dynamic facility has become the heart of live events and studio productions, fostering a unique connection between athletes and spectators. As the UFC Apex continues to evolve, it promises to raise the bar even higher, shaping the future of mixed martial arts and captivating audiences for years to come.
The UFC Apex was opened on the 18th of June, 2019.
UFC Apex is located in Enterprise, Nevada.
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