Dana White Says UFC Has Invested Millions in Sphere Fight

Since opening last year, the Sphere in Las Vegas has hosted some unforgettable events, from U2's spectacular opening residency to recent shows by Phish and the upcoming NHL draft later this month. And last October, UFC CEO and president Dana White first revealed that the organization was working to host a fight at the Sphere. The plans are now coming into place, and White revealed just how much money has already been sunk into the endeavor. 

"I’m already $16 million into this thing," White told Shannon Sharpe on the June 19 episode of Club Shay Shay. "This will never be done again. This will never be replicated. Anybody who comes in after me into the Sphere is f--ked. F--ked! I'm telling you right now!"

"It will be the greatest live sporting event anybody has ever seen," he added. "We’re working on [the card] and tweaking it every day. Everybody should want to be on that card."

The event is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 14 in celebration of Mexican Independence Day on the 16^th. White believes there's no better way to mark the holiday, especially if you're of Mexican descent. 

It's been in the works for some time. In November 2023, White spoke to reporters about the idea and teased that the ball—or in this case, Sphere—was already rolling. 

"Mexican Independence Day, we are booked for the Sphere, and we are already working on the creative for the show," White said. "It's going to be a massive challenge, and I love every minute of it. I can't wait to dive into this thing."

"Remember that I said this to you tonight: I'm going to put on the greatest live combat sport show anybody has ever seen," he added.

UFC 306 is set for Sept. 14 at the Sphere.