UFL Struggles in Memphis as Attendance Plummets

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The second season of the United Football League (UFL) is not performing nearly as well as the first, with the Memphis Showboats facing a significant attendance crisis.

Saturday’s matchup between the Arlington Renegades and the Showboats at Simmons Liberty Bank Stadium ended in a disappointing 30-12 loss for Memphis. According to Mike Mitchell, who closely monitors UFL attendance on Twitter, turnout for the game was dismal, highlighting ongoing issues for the team.

Last year, the Showboats averaged 6,900 fans across five home games, but this season tells a different story. So far, the team’s attendance for home games has dropped markedly, with figures of 4,372 in Week 1, 4,753 in Week 3, and 4,215 in Week 7. Following Saturday’s game, the average attendance has now plummeted to just 3,846 fans per game.

The Showboats currently hold a record of 2-7 with only one home game left on their schedule, set for next weekend. Concerns have been raised about the team’s future in Memphis. Before the season commenced, UFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Daryl Johnston indicated that the league would assess the situation in Memphis closely.

If the Showboats fail to draw significant crowds next weekend, there is a chance the team may not remain in Memphis beyond the 2025 season. The future of the franchise could hinge on the upcoming game.