Burt Watson, the man behind the scenes who coordinated UFC events for 14 years, has decided to get into the promotion business.
Watson announced in a press release the creation of Burt Watson Promotions and will hold events beginning in June under the name “We Rollnnn MMA.” The first card is scheduled for June 15 from the Hard Rock Event Center at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Hollywood.
“I want to give fans a world-class product, and preparing each fighter for the bright lights of the next level is what I do,” Watson said. “The combination of competitive fights and great fan support is the only way to get that done, and I’m excited to start this new chapter.”
Before joining the UFC, Watson was once the manager to boxing icon Joe Frazier. The Philadelphia native also worked with Alliance MMA during his career.
“Every fighter started somewhere, and every champion was once a prospect,” Watson said. “My goal with Burt Watson Promotions is to introduce these future superstars to the public, and with my years of experience, show them what it takes to compete on the highest level of the sport.”
Watson left the UFC back in 2015 following an incident with a member of the UFC’s executive team. Neither side has commented further on the matter or the decision by Watson to leave.