When the UFC Apex opened in 2019, Dana White promised it would be a game changer—a place that could weather any storm, even a global pandemic. For years, it has served that purpose, giving fighters a stage when arenas around the world were silent. The 130,000-square-foot production facility has seen some incredible fights since its inception, but is it time for the promotion to take the show back on the road?

In an interview with TNT Sports earlier this year in August, the UFC boss proclaimed, “The Apex is going under construction” and indicated that it will remain closed till mid-2025. But now, as the UFC gears up for an ambitious $25 million renovation, Team Dana White has made a bold proclamation about the future plans for the venue.

Team Dana White unveils plans to tone down the number of UFC Apex events in 2025   

Dana White, ever the visionary, hinted at the grand plans for the Apex in his conversation with TNT Sports by stating, “It’s gonna be bigger and better. We’re doing like a $25 million expansion on the Apex. There’s gonna be hospitality, more bathrooms. Bigger. More seating. Yeah, we’re expanding.”

But will “bigger and better” solve the main complaint fans have about the Apex? Many have voiced their frustration with the venue’s small size and the subdued energy it brings to UFC Fight Nights. Without the roaring crowd that fighters thrive on, the Apex often feels like a practice ground rather than a battleground. And the same sentiment was echoed by the fighters at UFC Edmonton recently.

As such, when asked about the future plans for the venue, UFC executive David Shaw recently stated at the post-UFC Edmonton press conference, “There will be an increased number of events outside of the Apex relative to this year as we get into the 2025 schedule.” Shaw was quick to point out, however, that the Apex won’t disappear entirely. While it may not return to pre-pandemic levels of exclusivity, the UFC still sees value in having a home base. “It’s tough for us to anticipate what 2-3 years down the road will look like,” Shaw said.

He further explained the practicality of having a reliable facility in Las Vegas as he stated, “I think having ‘home games’ and being in the Apex where you can just turn off the lights and lock the door it makes a lot of sense for us. So, will ever get back to pre-COVID of no Apex, I don’t think so. But I think we’re gonna find the right balance for us.”

With Team Dana White indicating that they’re planning on giving the fans more events outside the Apex, they just might have fewer reasons to grumble about its atmosphere if they can join in on the live action as the UFC heads to different locations for ‘Fight Night’ cards in 2025. After all, UFC Edmonton has proven that record-setting gates for ‘Fight Night’ events can become a reality!

UFC Edmonton sets gate records as major rule changes come into play 

The UFC’s first visit to Edmonton since UFC 240 in July 2019 has been a resounding success and a historic occasion with the changing of two major rules! In his pre-fight preview, UFC CEO Dana White was quick to remind fans about the significance of the evening as he revealed, “I’m here in Edmonton, Canada – Tomorrow night’s Fight Night breaks the record for North American gate for a Fight Night and for those of you watching tomorrow, (remember) the rules change.”

But what exactly does this mean? The 12-to-6 elbow, often called the ‘North-South elbow,’ refers to a strike that comes straight down, like the hands of a clock moving from noon to six. This move had long been banned due to concerns about its potential for serious injury. However, it’s now legal—though with one crucial exception: it must not target the back of the opponent’s head.

Another longstanding rule—the grounded fighter rule—has also been modified. Previously, fighters could “ground” themselves by placing a single hand on the canvas, making them ineligible to be kicked or kneed in the head. Now, under the revised rules, one hand on the ground no longer counts. According to the California State Athletic Commission, a fighter is considered grounded only if any part of their body other than their hands or feet is in contact with the mat.

UFC Edmonton’s record-setting Fight Night proved fans are eager to return to watch shows in their hometowns in droves, and the introduction of two landmark rule changes only adds to the momentum. With plans to balance Apex events with more on-the-road shows, the UFC and Team Dana White seem ready to embrace both innovation and tradition as they plan to shake things up in 2025! What are your thoughts on more UFC events being planned for venues other than the Apex in Las Vegas? Let us know in the comments below!