Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) continues its pursuit of global mixed martial arts (MMA) domination. Following the UFC Fight Night 27: "Condit vs. Kampmann 2" event in Indianapolis, UFC President Dana White elaborated on the brand's goal of putting on events in countries with a strong following.
White made it clear in his post fight scrum that three territories are in the forefront of UFC's plans: Russia, Mexico, and Philippines.
Each are potentially slated to hold a card in the very near future, possibly as soon as 2014.
UFC has shown a commitment to expanding the areas where they put on shows, with the recent announcement of a card taking place in Singapore on Jan. 4 and the possibility of a Conor McGregor showcase looming on the horizon from Ireland (post ACL injury).
There seems to be no end to the expansion in sight.
The importance of a recognizable star with lineage from the country where the event is potentially taking place cannot be overstated. The blueprint has already been laid by successful pay-per-view (PPV) shows with proven draws such as Anderson Silva (Brazil), Georges St. Pierre (Canada), and Michael Bisping (England), frequently fighting on cards from their homeland.
Even guys like Erik Perez are showcasing their roots, as "Goyito" was rocking a lucha libre mask to the Octagon last Wednesday night. In addition, fighters like Mark Munoz (Philippines) are jumping all over the recent news, and UFC should continue the expansion at all costs.
Sending Jon Jones to hang with Fedor Emelianenko was a good start (video).
Global expansion is something major sports leagues have attempted for some time, but with minimal success. Is the idea of expanding good for UFC, or should the focus remain on growing in the good ole' U.S. of A.?