International Fight Week is buzzing with excitement as the UFC continues to unveil a series of significant fight announcements, particularly within the featherweight division. A key matchup that has garnered attention is the upcoming clash between Movsar Evloev and Aaron Pico, which could potentially determine the next challenger for Alexander Volkanovski’s title.
Additionally, former title challenger Diego Lopes is set to headline the Noche UFC event in September, where he will take on the rising contender Jean Silva. This event has been moved to San Antonio, Texas, indicating the UFC’s commitment to showcasing top talent in prominent locations.
In a recent update from Dana White, the UFC confirmed the latest fight card for their anticipated return to Shanghai on August 23. The event will feature Chinese fighter Mingyang Zhang as he steps into the ring against top contender Johnny Walker, following Zhang’s impressive retirement of Anthony Smith earlier this year. This matchup is expected to generate significant excitement as Zhang, nicknamed ‘Mountain Tiger’, aims to elevate his status in the light heavyweight division.
The co-main event will see former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling attempt to reignite his career at featherweight, taking on another ex-title challenger, Brian Ortega. However, this fight has sparked mixed reactions from fans who were disappointed to see it placed below the Zhang vs. Walker bout. Many believe that the Sterling-Ortega matchup deserves main event status, given the caliber of fighters involved.
Social media has been abuzz with fan reactions, expressing frustration about the fight placements. Comments ranged from calls to move Ortega vs. Sterling to a more prominent slot, to confusion about why the matchup wasn’t featured on a pay-per-view card.
Despite the discontent regarding fight placements, the UFC’s strategy to feature a local fighter like Zhang can be a pivotal move. A win for him in front of a home crowd could skyrocket his popularity and enhance the UFC’s brand in China. While some fans might prefer to see more explosive pairings as main events, the technical and tactical nature of Ortega vs. Sterling adds depth to the card, showcasing the high-level skills and experience both fighters bring.
This upcoming event not only highlights the UFC’s commitment to its fighters but also reflects its effort in expanding its global footprint in emerging markets like China.