UFC is preparing to "unleash future generations of Chinese fighters" on the world of MMA with the announcement of a "sprawling new performance institute in Shanghai designed to develop burgeoning local talent while furthering the rapid growth of the sport across the wider Asia-Pacific region," according to Mathew Scott of the SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST. UFC VP of Asia-Pacific Kevin Chang said, "This is going to be the catalyst in terms of digging in and really developing these athletes the right way. It will also give a lot more athletes from around the region a clear path to be recognized, and to get into the UFC." At around three times the size of the UFC's Performance Institute in Las Vegas, the new Shanghai center -- to be situated in the city's central Jing'an District -- "will include the very latest in high-tech strength and conditioning facilities," as well as centers for sports science and nutrition, and is slated for opening in mid-'19. The complex will also become the UFC's center of operations for the Asia-Pacific region. Training programs at the institute will be guided by UFC Hall of Famer and VP of Athlete Development Forrest Griffin.
The new facility will open in '19.UFC
Along with training facilities, the Shanghai institute will include "built-in advanced production capabilities with spectator seating that will allow UFC to produce and distribute live events and other original programming." UFC COO Lawrence Epstein said, "This facility will not only give us the ability to train the next generation of Chinese MMA stars, but it will be a major attraction to fans in the region and allow them to interact with our brand in an authentic way" (SCMP, 11/20).
