When UFC returns to Newark this Saturday for a fourth consecutive year, you can count on two things: incredible action in the Octagon — and incredible economic impact in the city and state.
UFC 328 made possible by the support of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority and Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment, represents a tremendous economic opportunity.
Last year’s event, UFC 316, generated $27 million in economic impact for the Newark metropolitan area, according to a study conducted by research firm Applied Analysis.
UFC Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Epstein said the study reinforces the powerful role UFC plays as an economic driver for host cities.
“From record-breaking attendance to millions in direct visitor spending, this event delivered meaningful impact for local businesses, supported jobs and brought global visibility to the Newark metropolitan area,” he said. “We’re grateful to our partners and fans who have made UFC such a great success in the Garden State.”
UFC 316 attracted a sold-out crowd of more than 17,300 attendees to the Prudential Center and recorded a gate of $6.5 million.
But here’s why the economic impact is so great.
Approximately 71% of ticket buyers came from outside New Jersey or outside the country. Nearly 80% of those surveyed said they traveled to New Jersey specifically for UFC 316, and the average visitor spent $1,048 while in New Jersey for the event — almost twice that of the typical visitor to the area.
Total direct spending attributed to the event was $15.1 million, with visitor spending across the Newark metro area reaching more than $13 million (and the remainder reflecting UFC operations).
After accounting for the ripple effect generated from vendor purchases (indirect impact) and employee spending (induced impact), total economic activity sourced to UFC 316 reached $27 million.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka wasn’t surprised.
“Newark has established itself as a premier venue city for UFC worldwide events, and we are ready to welcome the world to this year’s championship contest,” he said. “It’s our honor to be able to offer fight fans the full array of Newark’s diverse culture through our cuisine, entertainment and nightlife, shopping and hospitality — and we are privileged to serve as a world-class destination for everyone who travels here.
“We thank UFC for the enormous talent in its rosters, in the ring, and out.”
Jake Reynolds, president of Prudential Center and the New Jersey Devils, is just as grateful.
“Each UFC event, including last year’s UFC 316, continues to raise the bar for live events, delivering unforgettable moments, generating positive economic impact for our area, and attracting passionate fans worldwide,” he said. “We look forward to building on New Jersey’s combat sports tradition by hosting another electrifying night here in Newark for UFC 328.”
And supporting local workers.
The study showed UFC 316 supported 179 local employees and $11 million in salaries and wages (not including athletes’ purses). An additional $1.1 million in fiscal (tax) revenue was collected for the benefit of the regional economy, including ticket and pay-per-view taxes paid by UFC and taxes on visitor spending (sales, lodging, etc.).
Finally, the event created significant media exposure for the area, with 63.54 billion impressions valued at $655.7 million.
