The Cost of UFC Belgrade to the State

UFC's inaugural event in Serbia ranked among the country's largest sporting spectacles, yet bringing the world's premier MMA organization to the nation came at a significant cost to the state. According to officially published data, the Serbian Ministry of Sport paid 260 million Serbian dinars, approximately 2.2 million euros, to host the fight night in Belgrade.

UFC Belgrade took place on August 1st, marking the organization's first event on Serbian soil. Prior to the event, President Aleksandar Vučić welcomed the UFC delegation, led by the organization's president, Dana White. Vučić emphasized the fight night's importance for the entire region.

“People from across the region – Macedonia, Montenegro, Croatia, and Hungary – are coming to this event,” he stated.

Dana White also highlighted the anticipated economic benefits of hosting.

“This is good for tourism, for trade, for the entire city,” the UFC president underscored.

The fight night generated immense interest, with all tickets selling out in advance. Belgrade Arena welcomed 18,623 spectators, and ticket sales revenue reached nearly 2.5 million dollars. These figures made the event one of UFC's most successful European debuts.

Following the show, White confirmed the organization's intention to return to the Serbian capital. This indicates that Belgrade has established itself as an attractive destination for future UFC fight nights.