‘Real Madrid X UFC’ — President Dana White teases fight at Santiago Bernabeu as Ilia Topuria calls out Conor McGregor

Real Madrid's home ground will now host more than football. From UFC to NFL and eSports, the Santiago Bernabeu will have it all!

‘Real Madrid X UFC’ — President Dana White teases fight at Santiago Bernabeu as Ilia Topuria calls out Conor McGregor

Dana White teased the possibility of a UFC event at the Santiago Bernabeu (Via X/@MadridXtra & MadridUniversal)

A venue that has been the favorite destination for Champions League nights and numerous iconic moments in football may be in for a change of sport. Real Madrid’s home, Santiago Bernabeu is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and historic venues in all of football. The ongoing renovation and subsequent competition will mean that several sporting events can be held at the Bernabeu. This ranges from the NFL to basketball, tennis, and even UFC!

UFC President Dana White teased the possibility of a high-profile match-up being held at the Los Blancos’ home ground. A whopping renovation cost of around €1.4 billion comes as no surprise since the new stadium will be fit to host an array of sporting events. From a retractable turf to extended capacity and seating, the Bernabeu will have it all. Following Ilia Topuria‘s victory over Alexander Volkanovski, the Spaniard called for a title defense in his backyard.

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Topuria challenged Conor McGregor to a fight in Spain and announced that he’ll be ‘waiting’ for him. White said,

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We are definitely going to Spain. I like it. Good, yeah!

Further, he also announced that plans were already in motion to hold an event in Spain.

The President was also informed about the new ‘roof’ and capacity at the Bernabeu, taking away concerns of interference by the weather. With a new capacity of 81,044, a match-up at the Bernabeu will certainly break the record for the biggest attendance at a UFC event as well.

NFL, UFC, and a lot more: A closer look at Real Madrid’s €1.4 billion stadium

The Santiago Bernabeu has been subject to a lot of attention following the club’s recent decision to partner with the NFL. The Spanish giants have invested a significant chunk of their finances into renovating the iconic stadium. The ground, which has been witness to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, and many more will now welcome superstars from other sports as well.

Santiago Bernabeu
The newly constructed Santiago Bernabeu (Via X/@MadridUniversal)

As per the proposed design, the new stadium will feature a retractable roof, giving it a wrapped, state-of-the-art look. The capacity has been expanded from around 81,000 to 85,000 with the addition of a new stand that can house over 3,000 fans. The club has also added new accessibility routes and safety measures to the billion-euro project.

In terms of sports, the club is ready to host various events like basketball, tennis, and American football. A retractable pitch and an underground system allow for concerts and shows. Although games have resumed at the Bernabeu, renovations are ongoing.

The NFL is expected to start in Spain by 2025, and preparations for eSports are underway. A 360-degree scoreboard will be installed, enhancing the crowd’s experience. With advanced facilities and innovative work, the stadium is dubbed the ‘Bernabeu of the 21st century’.

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