RAC Arena crowned top UFC venue in the 2026 USA TODAY Sports Readers’ Choice Awards

Perth’s RAC Arena has been crowned the world’s Best UFC Venue, topping a global field of leading arenas including New York’s Madison Square Garden, Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena and Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena in the 2026 USA TODAY Sports Readers’ Choice Awards.

The award was determined through public voting following nominations from a panel of USA TODAY Sports editors, with RAC Arena finishing first among UFC venues worldwide.

RAC Arena General Manager Michael Scott said the recognition was a reflection of Western Australia’s passionate UFC fan base and Perth’s reputation as a world-class host city for major sporting events.

“To be recognised by fans around the world as the Best UFC Venue is an incredible honour and a testament to the atmosphere Perth fans create every time UFC comes to town,” said Scott.

“To finish ahead of some of the most iconic sporting arenas on the planet speaks volumes about the experience our dedicated team, partners and fans have built together. We’re proud to showcase Perth on the world stage and look forward to welcoming UFC back to RAC Arena in the future.”

Peter Kloczko, UFC’s Senior Vice President Australia and New Zealand said Perth had established itself as one of the sport’s premier destinations globally.

“Returning to Perth and RAC Arena is a real highlight of our UFC events calendar. The venue is perfect for an amazing live UFC event experience – always an incredible atmosphere in the building when we’re there. Congratulations to Michael and his team. We cannot wait to be back in 2027.”

RAC Arena has hosted multiple UFC events in recent years, helping cement Perth’s position as a key international destination for combat sports and major live entertainment. UFC events at the venue have attracted fans from across Australia and overseas, delivering significant economic and tourism benefits to Western Australia.

The USA TODAY Sports Readers’ Choice Awards recognise leading sports venues, events and experiences worldwide, with winners selected through public voting.