Limited number of fans allowed at January UFC events
For the first time since last March, UFC fans will have the opportunity to attend an event later this month.
About 2,000 spectators will be allowed at the Jan. 16, 20, and 23 shows at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, the UFC told TSN's Aaron Bronsteter. The venue has a capacity of 18,000.
Tickets are already available for purchase on the Etihad Arena website.
The COVID-19 pandemic forced the UFC to hold events without fans in attendance throughout the majority of 2020, mainly at Flash Forum in Abu Dhabi and the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The last card with spectators was UFC 248 on March 7, which featured a middleweight title bout between Israel Adesanya and Yoel Romero.
Numerous coronavirus protocols will be in place at the upcoming events, according to the venue's website. Fans must present proof of a negative COVID-19 test and will undergo a temperature check upon entering the building. Any person who shows signs of a high fever or fails to provide a valid test result will be denied entry. Masks must be worn at all times.
The UFC's third trip to Fight Island is highlighted by a lightweight rematch between Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier, which takes place Jan. 23 at UFC 257. The other main events include Max Holloway versus Calvin Kattar and Neil Magny against Michael Chiesa.