Newark was the host for one of the biggest events in mixed martial arts this year on Saturday night.
UFC 302, headlined by lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and former champion Dustin Poirier, brought a buzz to the Prudential Center hours before fight night.
This was the UFC’s 10th trip to Newark. Attendees enjoyed “fan fest” beforehand, which featured photo ops, fighter meet-and-greets and games.
It’s also a financial boost for the city. Officials estimated last year’s event generated an estimated $25 million in economic impact - with $5 million at the door.
The event was expected to be a sellout despite ticket prices on fight night ranging from $400 to $15,000.