ONE announces 2017 schedule, debuts in Vietnam, Japan and South Korea
The UFC isn't the only MMA promotion branching out into new markets and expanding upon its schedule.
ONE Championship announced its 2017 schedule Monday night and it includes 18 currently scheduled events, the potential for debuting in three new cities and more shows in mainland China.
Along with mainstay cities like Singapore, Jakarta, Manila and Kuala Lumpur, ONE plans on visiting Vietnam, Japan and South Korea for the first time next year, per a release. The Vietnam event is already scheduled: Oct. 27 in Da Nang.
ONE has run 14 events in 2016 and will hold at least four more next year. Also on the slate are Chinese cities Shanghai (twice) and Shenzhen.
"With the addition of key senior leaders to aid ONE with our growth plans, the promotion is in an unbelievable position to make some major waves in the global MMA industry," ONE CEO Victor Cui said in a statement. "Together we aim to deliver fans a continuously unique experience that they will never forget.
"ONE Championship is coming out in full force to hold electric live events all over mainland China, with plans to break into new and exciting markets in Vietnam, South Korea and Japan. I know fans can't wait for ONE to come to town. Get ready for one of the biggest years in MMA."
ONE will be heading back to Thailand for the second straight year with a pair of shows and will be back in Myanmar as well for two events.
Per the release, ONE Championship broadcasts to more than 1 billion viewers in more than 118 countries.