UFC Returns To Newark's Prudential Center On May 6th

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 11: Charles Oliveira of Brazil celebrates after defeating Dustin Poirier to defend his lightweight title during the UFC 269 event at T-Mobile Arena on December 11, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

(Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

The Octagon will make its return to the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey for UFC 288 on Saturday, May 6.

The current official bouts on the card include former UFC lightweight champion and current No. 1 ranked contender Charles Oliveira battling No. 4 Beniel Dariush.

Bryce Mitchell, Jonathan Pearce, Kron Gracie, Charles Jourdain, and many more are also scheduled to appear at the famed arena.

“I am thrilled to bring another massive Pay-Per-View to Newark,” UFC President Dana White said in a press release. “UFC has a long history with New Jersey, which has played host to many huge fights in the past. I can’t wait to rock Prudential Center with another world-class UFC event.”

The Prudential Center has previously hosted a total of eight UFC events throughout the years including UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Lawler in August 2019.

“Our state is proud to host this exciting event and provide a premium experience for the thousands of UFC fans attending,” said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy. “New Jersey’s world-class sports and entertainment venues, exceptional restaurants and hotels, and unparalleled airports and location have made our state the premier destination for some of the world’s most high-profile events. Hosting this major UFC card, coupled with the additional community-based and tourism opportunities leading up to the main event, will bring significant economic activity and impact to the region.”

Tickets go on sale for UFC 288 on Friday, March 17 at 10 am ET. The event will also be available live on May 6 on both ESPN+ Pay-Per-View.

New Jersey Ranked Among Top 10 Most UFC Obsessed States In America

Although Nevada ranks first on the list, it is no surprise that New York and New Jersey are among the top 10 most UFC-obsessed states in America. The data collected has established the percentage of states searching for the "UFC."

Google data for various search terms associated with UFC in the United States was recently analyzed by combat sports experts over at middleeasy.com.

Sports fans and those specifically interested in UFC living in New Jersey and New York are always eager to stay up to date on the latest news and events. Lucky for us, New York is home to one of the most iconic venues for the sport, Madison Square Garden, and it's right in our backyard.

A spokesperson from middleeasy.com has commented on the findings:

“Over the years, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has emerged as one of the most popular sports in America. With millions of fans across the country, the UFC has been able to establish itself as a major player in the world of sports entertainment. The popularity of the UFC can be attributed to several factors, including the quality of the fights, the charisma of the fighters, and the high level of production values associated with the events. The study links and explores the history of each state’s link to fighting and MMA.”

Scroll below to see the top 10 most UFC-obsessed states in America.