Event Notes: UAE Fans Get Ready For Return Of UFC To Abu Dhabi

UFC organizers "launched the first in a series of five events" to be staged in the Arab region over the next two years, with two set for Abu Dhabi. The first UFC Fight Night will take place April 11 at the du Arena, one day removed from the four-year anniversary of the last bouts staged in the capital (THE NATIONAL, 2/25). ... Former England coach Ben Ryan "has lent his backing to Hong Kong again becoming the jewel in the sevens crown," with the Hong Kong Rugby Football Union "promising they will fight for their event to be made the climactic final leg in the World Series." The Int'l Rugby Board "will consider restructuring the tournament." Ryan, now in charge of last year's Hong Kong winners Fiji, said, "I wouldn't mind the series ending in Hong Kong. This is one thing I would want changed in the World Series if I had my way" (SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST, 2/25).