If the rumor mill is churning correctly, then the world’s biggest MMA organization is set to make its debut in Sydney, Australia at UFC 108 on February 21st. The event not only marks the UFC’s first treck to “The Land Down Under,” but it will also be the first time they have held a Sunday evening promotion as well.
The Sydney Morning Herald first reported the news Sunday citing the UFC’s U.K. president, Marshall Zelaznik, however multiple news outlets have since confirmed that the show is a-go.
The event is expected to take place inside the The Acer Arena and could possibly be headlined by a middleweight bout between popular Japanese fighter Yoshihiro Akiyama and former PrideFC 205-pound champion Wanderlei Silva.
During a recent THQ press conference to promote their highly popular “UFC Undisputed 2009” video game in Japan, Akiyama confirmed that he will be fighting Silva at UFC 111, however no official word from the organization regarding the contest.
If this scrap comes to fruition, it will be Silva’s first official Octagon fight at 185-lbs., while Akiyama will be making his second appearance for the UFC after beating Alan Belcher at UFC 100.
According to Zelaznik, the company has already began negotiations with Australian sports channel and pay-per-view carrier, Foxtel, to broadcast the event.
Due to the 15-hour time difference between Sydney and the U.S., it could be a late night for you hardcore UFC fans – that’s assuming they make it available live in the States. Otherwise, could we possibly be looking at another FREE Spike TV broadcast of a major UFC event?
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