For years, Dana White and the UFC have relentlessly expanded the promotion’s global footprint, bringing high-profile events to countries such as Australia, France, Canada, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and even China. These international showcases have not only fueled the UFC’s worldwide growth but have also provided local fighters with a platform to compete on home soil. However, despite its extensive reach, the MMA juggernaut has shown no indication of returning to Russia.

This comes as a surprise, considering the UFC boasts a stacked roster of Russian fighters, particularly from Dagestan. Moreover, their domination has been a highlight for several years with the latest one coming in the form of Magomed Ankalaev clinching the 205lbs gold after slaying Alex Pereira at UFC 313. Moreover, the #1 P4P fighter Islam Makhachev also happens to be from the rugged, mountainous wrestler factory. For the unversed, the promotion first stepped into Russian territory in 2018 with UFC Fight Night: Hunt vs. Oleinik at the Olimpiyskiy Stadium, drawing an attendance of 22,603—one of the top 10 largest crowds in UFC history.

A year later, the UFC returned with UFC Fight Night: Zabit vs. Kattar in 2019. Since then, however, the promotion has not hosted another event in Russia. So, what’s behind this prolonged absence? Political tensions and increasing scrutiny of Russia’s government are the primary reasons. The UFC has strategically distanced itself due to various concerns, including U.S. political pressure and Russia’s controversial global standing. Adding to this, many UFC fighters have well-documented ties to Chechnya warlord Ramzan Kadyrov, a staunch ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, with Donald Trump back in the White House, speculation is growing about a possible UFC return to Russia.

Given Dana White’s well-established relationship with Trump and his active involvement in the former president’s political endeavors, some believe the UFC CEO may be eyeing a return under more favorable conditions. During UFC 313, Russian journalist Victor Shesterkin pressed White on the “possibility” of the promotion’s return to Russia. Leaning in close, the head honcho offered a short but telling response: “[Donald] Trump and [Vladimir] Putin Need to Figure It Out. You know what I mean.”

But is it really that simple? That’s hard to say. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has severely tarnished Russia’s global reputation, resulting in widespread international isolation, largely driven by the United Nations. As a result, Russia has become increasingly difficult for global organizations like the UFC to operate in, with few countries, such as India, remaining supportive. Adding to the complications is the aforementioned Kadyrov, the controversial Chechen leader who is closely linked to Khamzat Chimaev.

Kadyrov’s alleged human rights violations have kept him in the spotlight of international criticism, which only adds layers of complexity to any potential UFC return to Russian soil. Now, all attention is on Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, both renowned for their passion for combat sports. The big question remains: Will the UFC ever return to Russia?

Throwback: When Dana White extended an open invitation to Vladimir Putin to attend a UFC event

Much like Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin is also known for his passion for combat sports. Dana White mentioned this last year while recalling UFC 229, which took place in 2018 and featured the historic battle between Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov. UFC 229 is still one of the most successful events in the promotion’s history, with over 2.4 million PPV buys. Among the viewers was Russian President Vladimir Putin, who watched the fight from Russia. After Khabib submitted McGregor, Putin called ‘The Eagle’ to congratulate him and reportedly gifted him a sum of $20 million.

Dana White has often expressed his hope of one day having Vladimir Putin attend the event. During UFC 302, the head honcho was asked how he would react if Putin made the trip to the U.S. for a UFC event. Despite Russia’s controversial global standing, White made it clear that he would welcome the Russian president. In the UFC 302 post-fight interview, White said, “You know, it’s funny because any president of a country that comes to a fight, obviously we would be blown away and honored to have him at any of our fights. So obviously, Russia, I’m sure the president of the country would be more than welcome to come.”

What’s your opinion on the UFC potentially holding an event in Russia? Do you think it’s something you’d like to see in the future, despite the country’s controversial political climate and actions? Or, as a fan, are there other places you’d love to see the UFC bring its events to? There have been rumors about Spain being on the radar—what’s your take on that? Drop your thoughts below!