One of the factors that makes UFC events so exciting is the fans. The outburst of emotions to a spectacular knockout or a big upset is unparalleled. And for the better part of the past year, fans have been absent from the sport due to circumstances out of their control. 

UFC 248 was the last event to have a packed crowd. Since then, the coronavirus pandemic has meant that not only the UFC but other sports have also had to continue without fans. However, all that is about to change.

It was recently announced that the UFC will be heading to Florida for UFC 261 and for the first time since UFC 248, it will host an event in front of a packed crowd. 

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The UFC and Dana White pave the way once again with UFC 261 

The UFC recently posted a video on Twitter. In the video, Dana White said, “What’s up everybody, UFC president Dana White here. And I have been waiting a year for this day to tell you we are back, UFC 261 on April 24th will be in Jacksonville, Florida with a full house of fans. Full capacity at the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena.”

“And you know I’m bringing an incredible card. We have three title fights, the welterweight championship, Kamaru Usman vs Jorge Masvidal two….. This is a stacked card in front of 15,000 UFC fans….. Ladies and gentlemen, we are back…. And I just want to say thank you Jacksonville I love you guys and we will see you soon.”

The lockdown meant the death of live events. However, White and the UFC found a way to host events safely with appropriate protocols in place.

The first few events were held at Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena where the UFC now returns. The only difference is that this time around, there will be 15,000 fans to witness the action live. 

To welcome fans back, the UFC has stacked three title fights on the same card, which is not common in the UFC. What do you make of the card at UFC 261? Let us know in the comments below!