Network television. In this day and age, it still matters; and it definitely matters to the UFC.
Next weekend, the promotion will make its debut on ABC with an event from Abu Dhabi and “Fight Island.” In the main event, former champion Max Holloway takes on Calvin Kattar.
In contrast to some previous network television events, this one might not have the “star power.” Sure, Holloway vs. Kattar is a far cry from Cain Velasquez vs. Fabricio Werdum, but this is a much different time for both the UFC and MMA as a whole.
The sport has earned the respect of fans, athletes, the media and more over the past few years. Agree or disagree, returning as quickly as they did from the coronavirus gave the UFC the upper-hand in the headlines.
Those that agreed talked about it. Those that disagreed also talked about it. Plain and simply, everybody talked about it.
As we begin 2021 and still more uncertainty around COVID-19 and the world-wide pandemic, this is the exact way they should be ushering in the ABC era.
Holloway is an incredibly personable fighter. He is a family man. A former champion. Someone who is always willing to go the distance and beyond.
Kattar is a native of Massachusetts and has quickly moved through the featherweight rankings. This is the perfect opportunity and perfect time for him to break into that elite level.
The promotion is also packing the fight card with prospects and fighters who they know are going to do everything they can do deliver a monumental and memorable moment.
Omari Akhmedov takes on Tom Breese in what is sure to be a thrilling middleweight contest. Heavyweights Carlos Felipe and Justin Tafa square off along with featherweights Nik Lentz and Mike Grundy just to name a few.
So while it might not be Velasquez vs. Werdum or some other network MMA events, this is a card loaded with fighters that are looking to make an impact and a name for themselves.
And in 2021, that is what we all need to see.