Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has developed as one of the most spectated and exciting sports of our time. It includes participants from various combat sports fields like boxing, karate, jiu-jitsu, judo, and freestyle wrestling. Though there are many MMA associations, the UFC is the poster boy for this competition. Nevertheless, many venues have hosted MMA tournaments, satisfying the fans with memorable events.
In many instances, casinos host these fights and competitions, and visitors love these types of arrangements. Fans can get extra fun by accessing online gaming at low-deposit casinos that come with different benefits and bonus features. Players can claim bonuses on renowned casinos where even a $1 deposit can give rise to amazing prizes. These bonuses could be free spins on slot machines with low wagering requirements thus increasing the playing experience as well as providing extra value for the players.
Now, let’s take a look at the top four casinos that have staged MMA events.
Pearl at the Palms
The Pearl Theater at The Palms Casino Resort earned its position of being an ideal venue for MMA fans. It is the place where LFA events happen, and it combines the elements of entertainment and combat sports in one package. What’s more, it serves as the host location for the finale of every season of The Ultimate Fighter. With a seating capacity of about 2500, the theatre offers an intimate yet lively ambiance.
Some of the notable clashes from recent history are fights in the heavyweight division. This season, in round one, Roy ‘Big Country’ Nelson defeated James McSweeney. Another major component that makes the Pearl stand out is that it belongs to The Palms Casino Resort. Hence, guests will enjoy a variety of amenities which comprise top-notch restaurants and nightclubs as well as other entertainment facilities.
MGM Grand Garden Arena
The MGM Grand Garden Arena is a sports and entertainment landmark, and it is situated within the MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The arena also has a rich history of boxing but it gradually became the symbol of MMA. Garden Arena has hosted over 43 UFC events in the last 2 decades. One of its main appeals is its ability to change and adapt depending on the occasion. Hosting many MMA events of varying sizes, it can accommodate both small and large viewing audiences.
Fans of the sport had the chance to watch UFC 33 live and bear witness to the birth of the legendary rivalry between Tito Ortiz and Chuck Liddell. It was also the venue where Anderson Silva held his last fight and it was George St. Pierre’s last debut in the ring.
Coeur D’Alene Casino
Situated in Idaho’s picturesque surroundings, the Coeur D’Alene Casino brings thrill-seeking entertainment. It’s noticeably smaller than other listed venues, but it still lives up to the expectations of fans. Although Coeur D’Alene Casino may not have the same number of high-level MMA fights and sponsorship deals compared to larger venues, it has still been the place for several memorable events. Here are a few notable examples:
- King of the Cage: No Remorse (August 2016)
- King of the Cage: Spring Has Sprung (March 2022)
During the Spring Has Sprung event, music lovers were in for a treat. Voyage -The Ultimate Journey tribute band was one of the many acts that helped amp up the crowd. A special highlight for the fans of the iconic Prince was the Purple Reign – The Prince Tribute Show which set a standard for this kind of performance.
Additionally, there is a range of dining alternatives including Chinook’s Spring Menu and Coeur Chill Bar, which are perfect for relaxing and savouring one of the signature cocktails.
Mandalay Bay Events Center
With its electrifying atmosphere, the Mandalay Bay Events Center is just the perfect spot for top-tier MMA clashes. The place hosted some of the most iconic events in MMA, such as Brock Lesnar’s spectacular beginning in UFC.
Apart from offering a seating capacity of about 12000 people, the arena has an adrenaline-pumping feel to it. This amps up the competitors as well as the crowd. As luck would have it the arena is also on the Las Vegas Strip, so visitors can keep the party going even after the match.
Other Memorable Venues That Held MMA Events
Apart from that, other venues that hosted MMA matches deserve to be mentioned as well.
- T-Mobile Arena (Las Vegas, Nevada). The T-Mobile Arena is renowned for hosting iconic events such as UFC 229 where the legendary bout between Conor Mcgregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov took place.
- Honda Center (Anaheim, California). Known for UFC 214 with the rematch of Daniel Cormier against Jon Jones
- Madison Square Garden (New York, New York). Highly revered host of the UFC 205, which was the first-ever UFC event in the city. The memorable clash that New Yorkers got to enjoy was Conor McGregor’s against Eddie Alvarez.
- The Forum (Inglewood, California). The Forum hosted the iconic Bellator192 which featured a high-profile clash between Quinton “Rampage” Jackson and Chael Sonnen.
Conclusion
That about covers it, the most iconic battle arenas of the 21st century. These places have hosted the best fights ever and led to the greatest moments in the history of the sport. Whether it’s in Las Vegas or New York City, these arenas are now synonymous with championship battles.
