Sports

UFC 311 to Proceed in Los Angeles Despite Wildfire Crisis

Despite the ongoing wildfire crisis in Los Angeles, UFC 311 will take place as scheduled at the Intuit Dome this evening. UFC President Dana White confirmed the event's location, emphasizing its potential to uplift the community. While there were contingency plans to move the event to Las Vegas, officials have decided to proceed in LA. The main card features Islam Makhachev defending his lightweight title and Merab Dvalishvili aiming to retain his bantamweight belt.

UFC 311 Set to Take Place in Los Angeles Despite Wildfire Threat

The much-anticipated UFC 311 event will go ahead in Los Angeles tonight, even as the city grapples with a devastating wildfire crisis. The first major UFC event of 2025 was initially at risk of being relocated due to the ongoing emergency that has caused widespread destruction across the region.

Los Angeles Wildfire Crisis

Over the past few days, a massive wildfire has wreaked havoc in Los Angeles, affecting more than 10,000 structures and claiming at least 25 lives. The city has been on high alert, with several sports teams canceling or relocating their games. The Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers postponed NBA matches, while the LA Rams moved their NFL game to a different stadium.

Dana White Confirms UFC 311 Will Stay in LA

Despite the challenges, UFC President Dana White confirmed that UFC 311 will remain in Los Angeles, stating:

“No, there’s no chance we move. We’ll be there on Saturday, 100%. I think this event is definitely going to be a boost for the people who live there [in Los Angeles].”

White had previously mentioned the possibility of relocating to Las Vegas if conditions worsened, saying on a Sunday stream with social media star Adin Ross:

“If the fire gets bad, we are coming to Vegas. But as of now? It’s all go.”

Official Statements and Safety Monitoring

The California State Athletic Commission also addressed the situation, expressing their commitment to monitoring the wildfires and coordinating with local officials:

“Our hearts are with the residents of the region, and we appreciate the efforts of first responders in keeping the community safe. At this time, no decisions have been made about moving UFC 311.”

Wildfire Conditions and Safety Precautions

The BBC reported that strong winds are expected to fan the flames further, with forecasters warning of “extreme fire danger” in areas northwest of downtown LA. The Intuit Dome, located about 20 miles south of the ongoing Palisades fire, remains unaffected, allowing the event to proceed.

Fight Schedule and Highlights

If the event goes as planned, UFC 311 will kick off at 11 PM UK time with preliminary fights starting at 1 AM on Sunday morning. The main card, featuring two title fights, is expected to begin at 3 AM UK time.

Main Event Highlights:

  • Islam Makhachev will defend his UFC lightweight title against Renato Moicano.
  • Merab Dvalishvili will face Umar Nurmagomedov in a bantamweight title bout.

UFC 311 promises to deliver an exciting night of fights, serving as a welcome distraction and morale boost for a city battling through a challenging time.

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