International Fight Week is showcasing not only the thrill of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) but also the enthusiasm of celebrities who are ardent fans of the sport. UFC 317, set to take place on June 28, will feature a highly anticipated main event where Ilia Topuria will face Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title. This marquee event draws significant attention, especially from celebrities like Drake, who took to social media to announce his prediction for the matchup.
The excitement of the week was palpable during the UFC Hall of Fame ceremony earlier, where prominent figures in the entertainment industry, including Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, were on hand to honor Mark Kerr. One notable personality in attendance was NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, a longtime fan of MMA who has followed many landmark fights throughout the sport’s history.
O’Neal was invited to the ceremony by his good friend and UFC legend, Vitor Belfort. Reflecting on his introduction to UFC, O’Neal highlighted that the fight between Chuck Liddell and Tito Ortiz, which took place at UFC 47 in 2004, is a pivotal bout he would recommend to attract new fans. This fight marked a turning point in the rivalry between the two fighters, who transitioned from friends to fierce competitors, ultimately culminating in Liddell’s victory by knockout.
Recalling his introduction to UFC, O’Neal shared his astonishment at witnessing the sport, calling it “a legalized bar brawl.” He reminisced about the sheer intensity and excitement of that initial experience, which showcased the sport’s unique approach to combat.
This blend of celebrity involvement and the high stakes of competitive fighting serves to elevate the profile of MMA, attracting new viewers and expanding its fan base. As the anticipation builds for UFC 317, it is evident that both the events and personalities associated with the fight world contribute to its growing allure.
The engagement of well-known figures endorsing the sport further enhances its visibility, pointing to a bright future for MMA as it continues to capture the interest of diverse audiences. The involvement of celebrities like Shaquille O’Neal and Drake bolsters the excitement and community surrounding MMA, making events like UFC 317 not just fights but cultural spectacles.