UFC 311 Proceeds in Los Angeles Despite Wildfire Crisis

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — UFC 311, the first pay-per-view event of 2025 for the world’s premier mixed martial arts league, will proceed as planned at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles despite the ongoing wildfire crisis that has devastated parts of the city. The event, headlined by lightweight champion Islam Makhachev against last-minute replacement Renato Moicano, marks the UFC’s debut at the state-of-the-art arena.

The wildfires, which have claimed at least 25 lives and caused widespread destruction, raised concerns about the feasibility of hosting the event. However, UFC President Dana White confirmed on Wednesday that the show would go on. “No, there’s no chance we move,” White told The Jim Rome Show. “We’ll be there on Saturday. 100%.”

The Intuit Dome, home to the NBA‘s Los Angeles Clippers, is a $2 billion venue designed to host major global events. It features a double-sided digital screen called the ‘Halo Board,’ five basketball courts, a swimming pool, and a plaza with bars, restaurants, and shops. The arena also includes 1,400 toilets and seat chargers, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees.

Despite the wildfires, the UFC opted to keep the event in Los Angeles, viewing it as a morale boost for the city. “I think this event is definitely going to be a boost for the people who live there,” White said. The decision came after consultations with the California State Athletic Commission, which stated, “At this time, no decisions have been made about moving UFC 311, but we will continue to work with state and local officials and the UFC to determine the best course of action.”

The wildfires have already disrupted other major sports events in the area. The NBA’s Lakers and Clippers postponed games, while the NFL’s LA Rams also adjusted their schedule. However, the Clippers resumed play on Tuesday, defeating the Miami Heat 109-98 at the Intuit Dome.

Forecasters have warned of worsening conditions, with winds expected to fan the flames in the coming days. The Intuit Dome is located approximately 20 miles south of the Palisades fire, which remains active. Despite the risks, UFC 311 is set to begin at 11 p.m. UK time on Saturday, with preliminary fights starting at 1 a.m. on Sunday. The main card, featuring two title fights, is scheduled for around 3 a.m. Sunday.

In addition to Makhachev vs. Moicano, the event will see bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili defend his title against Umar Nurmagomedov. The UFC aims to deliver a spectacle that rivals its recent Las Vegas Sphere event, which featured immersive visuals between fights. Whether the Intuit Dome can match that experience remains to be seen.