Brandon Moreno's climb to becoming the first Mexican-born UFC champion was cemented in Arizona's sports history at what is now Desert Diamond Arena. On June 11, 2021, he avoided a punch and claimed the title, sparking an eruption of cheers and a sea of Mexican flags. That night marked a milestone for the region. Now, three years later, Arizona is set to welcome a surge of major combat sports events that could position the Phoenix area as a leading destination for both fans and competitors.
On August 4, at the well-known State Farm Stadium, the Arizona Sports & Events Alliance announced a groundbreaking three-year agreement with TKO Group Holdings. This deal is historic for TKO, which operates UFC, WWE, PBR, and the emerging Zuffa Boxing. The partnership aims to bring some of the most prestigious live sports and entertainment events to one of the country's top locations for major events.
Major Events Confirmed
The seven-event agreement features three major events that have been confirmed. UFC’s Noche UFC is set to occur on September 12 at Desert Diamond Arena. WWE’s Royal Rumble is scheduled for February 2027 at State Farm Stadium, and the PBR World Finals will run from May 20 to 23, 2027, also at Desert Diamond Arena. Additional Zuffa Boxing events are planned for the region, though their exact dates have yet to be revealed.
UFC president Dana White described the partnership as "a long time coming." He expressed enthusiasm about expanding the reach of UFC, PBR, and WWE in Arizona. Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill was equally positive, highlighting the region’s infrastructure, ease of travel, and hospitality as perfect for hosting such events.
UFC president Dana White explained the reasoning behind moving the Noche UFC event from Las Vegas to Phoenix. The decision aims to avoid competition with a major boxing event in Vegas during the Mexican Independence Day weekend. White believes the shift offers a more convenient and budget-friendly option for fans unable to travel to Las Vegas.
Brandon Moreno, who will face Joseph Morales in one of the fights, shared memories of the electric atmosphere at Desert Diamond Arena during his title win in 2021. The crowd’s energy and the waving flags made the moment unforgettable. "You open your eyes and all the arena is nuts," Moreno said, reflecting on the powerful bond between the fans and the event.
PBR World Finals and Ridge Rider Days Announced
WWE is set to return to Arizona for its Royal Rumble in February 2027, a highlight of the wrestling year. This will be the third time the Royal Rumble has taken place in Arizona and the first since 2013, further establishing the state’s reputation for major wrestling events.
The PBR World Finals will bring the top bull riders in the world to Desert Diamond Arena from May 20 to 23, 2027. Arizona’s official PBR team, the Arizona Ridge Riders, will also host Ridge Rider Days at the venue from October 8 to 10. Daylon Swearingen, a top PBR cowboy, described the thrilling nature of the sport, noting how the action unfolds once the gate is opened.
Soccer Rivalry Continues in Arizona
Adding to the Valley’s packed event calendar, the U.S. men’s national soccer team will host Mexico at State Farm Stadium on October 3. This will be the fourth time the teams have played in Arizona, adding to a historic rivalry that has lasted nearly a century. The match will begin at 7 p.m. and is expected to draw a large crowd.
Mexico maintains a strong advantage in the U.S.-Mexico series, with a record of 38 wins, 24 losses, and 17 draws over 92 years of competition. The intensity of this rivalry remains one of the most compelling aspects of international soccer, and Arizona’s role as a venue for these matches highlights its growing significance in global sports culture.