The first UFC event in New York turned out to be as good as everyone had hoped, breaking several records and generating millions in revenue for the state and the UFC. After a hard-fought battle and nearly 20-year ban of mixed martial arts in New York, it was legalized this past March. This opened the door for the first UFC event to take place at the World's Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden.
In the words of UFC president Dana White, “We broke every record in UFC history tonight – every record.” The event broke MSG's previous gate record by over $4 million, as well as both the UFC gate and Pay Per View records.
Looking to make a big impression on the Big Apple, the fight card boasted three championship fights–something the UFC has never done before. The main title fight included the biggest star and personality in the sport right now, Conor McGregor, who was looking to become champion in two different weight classes at the same time–something that had never been done before.
McGregor became the first person in UFC history to do so by taking out Eddie Alvarez via TKO in the second round. He now holds both the featherweight and lightweight titles.
The two other title fights went all 5 rounds. Tyron Woodley was able to hold on to his title after a majority draw against Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson. Joanna Jedrzejczyk also successfully defended her title against fellow Polish fighter Karolina Kowalkiewicz.
It was a sour night for native New Yorker Chris Weidman, who got hit with a flying knee from Yoel Romero that ended his night in the third round.
Overall it was a great night for New York, the UFC, and MMA fans. This record-breaking night will pave the way for future cards at MSG and beyond. UFC's next event in New York will take place in the state's capital, Albany, on December 9th, and the UFC makes its debut at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday, February 11th.
UFC 205 at MSG was most fittingly named "Can't wait." The wait is over.