The UFC was in Belo Horizonte for UFC 147, and, as is always the case when the UFC visits Brazil, the support from fans was daunting.
This comes as no surprise, however. Many of MMA‘s greatest fighters have come from Brazil, and the nation has a rich history in combat sports.
During the UFC 147 preliminaries, UFC president Dana White posted a video of a line three miles long outside the arena—all fans hoping to get into the event.
This was a staggering sight to see, especially given that UFC 147 was widely regarded as one of the most underwhelming cards in some years.
Not only that, but the fans were incredibly enthusiastic throughout the event, there applause at times deafening.
The highlight of the night might have been the fans chanting, “It’s time!” along with Bruce Buffer before the main event.
UFC 147 served as the finale for the first season of The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil, which was a big success. The first episode of the season brought in over 12 million viewers—numbers the American version of the show only wishes it could pull.
Indeed, it seems that Brazil can’t get enough of the UFC. When the promotion came to Rio de Janeiro, they opted to play it safe and do the event in an arena, as opposed to a soccer stadium.
This resulted in the show’s selling out in 74 minutes, leaving many fans unable to get tickets. Dana White later admitted that not doing the event in a stadium was a mistake.
Does Brazil have the best MMA fans?
It’s hard to say, but you’d be hard pressed to make an argument for those of any other country.
Andrew Barr is a Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report and a stand-up comedian. Check him out on Twitter @AndrewBarr8.
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