PHOENIX – Arizona’s rise in the national sports landscape has often been tied to championship games and marquee weekends. But the Arizona Sports & Events Alliance’s newest partnership with the TKO Group signals something more important, as the city wants to grow as a permanent sports hub.
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Oct 22, 2022; Abu Dhabi, UAE; Sean O’Malley (blue gloves) defeats Petr Yan (red gloveS) during UFC 280 at Etihad Arena. Mandatory Credit: Craig Kidwell-USA TODAY Sports
What does the new deal with the TKO Group bring?
We’re bringing the biggest events in sports and entertainment to Arizona. 🔥
TKO and the Arizona Sports & Entertainment Alliance have announced a landmark agreement to bring marquee UFC, WWE, PBR, and Zuffa Boxing events to the state. pic.twitter.com/l4559xL7Jc
— TKO (@TKOGrp) May 12, 2026
The agreement brings a multi-year slate of UFC, WWE, Professional Bull Riding, and boxing events to Arizona, strengthening Phoenix’s position as one of the country’s most reliable destinations for live sports entertainment. This is not simply about hosting another major card or premium wrestling event. It is about Arizona becoming part of the industry’s long-term business strategy.
Mar 25, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; David Benavidez enters the arena to face Caleb Plant (not pictured) in their Interim WBC Super Middleweight Championship boxing bout at MGM Grand Garden Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
For years, Las Vegas has dominated the combat sports conversation, while cities like New York and Los Angeles controlled the cultural spotlight. Phoenix quietly built leverage through attendance numbers, modern venues, and consistent fan engagement. The region’s ability to support everything from championship basketball to international soccer to Super Bowls have created a blueprint executives could trust.
Cody Rhodes celebrates winning the Undisputed WWE Championship match Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, during WWE WrestlePalooza at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. © Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Now, combat sports are investing accordingly in Arizona. The timing is significant because Arizona’s population growth continues to reshape the market. New residents from California, Texas, and the Midwest have expanded demand for large-scale entertainment events, especially ones built around spectacle and community experience. UFC cards, WWE premium events, and major boxing nights thrive in cities where tourism, nightlife, and passionate fan bases intersect, and Phoenix now checks every box. There is also an emotional layer for local fans. Arizona sports supporters have spent decades hearing their city described as underrated or overlooked. Partnerships like this change that perception nationally.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
