The demand was too great. The UFC, quite simply, had no choice. The fan outcry was too long, too loud. If the UFC didn’t start staging two cards in one day every so often, the global consumer base was going to revolt, atrophy, die or worse.
Welcome to the brave new world. UFC Fight Night 41 and the The Ultimate Fighter Brazil 3 finale, both held on May 31, were the Lewis and Clark of this subgenre. Let us rejoice in these pioneers and be glad in them.
Now comes a new chapter, lumbering along in these giant wagon ruts. This Saturday, you have both UFC Fight Night 43, broadcasting early in the morning from New Zealand and headlined by James Te Huna and Nate Marquardt, and UFC Fight Night 44, going down that night and topped by heavy-hitting featherweights Cub Swanson and Jeremy Stephens.
Maybe you’re one of those people left cold on this. I guess that’s OK. It’s OK that you don’t understand global marketing. As Dana White himself says, I suppose you’re free not to watch. And if you think that’s a strange thing for a businessperson to say, well, now you’re just being a dummy.
I was talking about something. Right. Here’s a breakdown of both cards. Contained herein are information capsules, predictions and viewing coordinates for each and every main card contest. Basic info also provided for both undercards, if you’re a masochist like that. Please enjoy.