New Jersey just keeps proving it’s more than ready for the spotlight.
As the adrenaline-pumping world of the UFC prepares to make its third consecutive return to Newark this weekend with UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley 2, new data from a recent study shows just how big an impact the sport has had on the Garden State — and the numbers are impressive.
According to the latest findings, UFC 302: Makhachev vs. Poirier, which took over the Prudential Center on June 1, 2024, wasn’t just a sold-out blockbuster — it generated $26.8 million in total economic impact for the Newark metro area. That’s not just a win in the octagon — it’s a win for local businesses, jobs, and tourism across New Jersey.
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Record-Breaking Numbers at Prudential Center
UFC 302 drew a sold-out crowd of 17,800 fans, raking in $7.3 million at the gate, officially becoming the highest-grossing sporting event in Prudential Center history. The event wasn’t just popular — it brought real dollars and jobs to the region.
Here’s a breakdown of what UFC 302 delivered:
- $14.3 million in direct spending from fans, vendors, and organizers
- 207 local jobs supported in hospitality, transportation, and other sectors
- $12 million in local salaries and wages paid
- $1.1 million in state and local taxes generated from event-related purchases
- An incredible 36.2 billion media impressions and $652.3 million in media value
Most notably, 79% of ticket sales came from outside New Jersey, with attendees from 48 states and 34 countries making the trip to Newark. That means thousands of visitors were booking hotel rooms, dining in restaurants, shopping, and experiencing all that New Jersey has to offer.
Newark: A Hub for World-Class Entertainment
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy celebrated the event’s success, calling it a milestone that “underscores the City of Newark and Prudential Center’s status as a premier destination for world-class entertainment.”
And the momentum isn’t slowing down. This weekend’s UFC 316 is expected to draw even more fans and excitement to Newark. Headlining the event is a high-stakes rematch between bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili and fan favorite Sean O’Malley, alongside a thrilling co-main event featuring Julianna Peña defending her title against rising powerhouse Kayla Harrison.
The return of the UFC to New Jersey is no coincidence. According to UFC COO Lawrence Epstein, fan demand in the Garden State has been “overwhelming,” and the partnership with the Prudential Center and the City of Newark has made hosting these events a slam dunk.
“We thank Governor Murphy, the city of Newark, and the amazing team at Prudential Center for welcoming UFC with open arms,” Epstein said. “These events are unforgettable, and New Jersey has proven to be the perfect home.”
The Future Looks Bright for NJ and UFC
With record-setting turnouts, economic booms, and fans traveling from across the world, New Jersey is officially on the map as a major destination for extreme sports and entertainment. As the UFC continues its legacy of success in the state, the future looks just as action-packed — and just as prosperous.
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Explore New Jersey will continue to follow the latest from UFC and other major events shaping the state’s growing reputation as a premier sports and entertainment destination. Stay tuned — the action is just getting started.
