Dana White targets UFC Hawaii debut as new arena clears path for 2028-29 event

UFC CEO Dana White has confirmed Hawaii is a top target for the promotion’s first-ever event in the state, with a new arena expected to be completed between 2028 and 2029 clearing the path for a long-awaited debut.

Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show, White explained that inadequate infrastructure has been the sole obstacle preventing the UFC from staging an event in one of its historically strongest markets. “One of our biggest markets since day one has been Hawaii, and we’ve still never put on an event in Hawaii,” he said. “We’ve had multiple world champions from Hawaii. The infrastructure there can’t support a UFC event. But now they’re building a new arena there. Supposed to be done in [2028, 2029].”

White was asked to name a location the UFC had never visited that he would most like to take the promotion. Hawaii was his immediate answer, and he made clear the appeal extends beyond fan demand — the destination factor matters to the organisation itself.

“I like destinations where people want to go,” White added. “When we do UFC Hawaii, people will lose their minds. Who doesn’t want to go to UFC Hawaii? When I think about UFC Hawaii, that will be a fun one.”

Hawaii has produced several UFC world champions over the years, giving the state a deep connection to the sport despite never hosting a major event. The combination of that fan base, the cultural significance of the location, and the prospect of a purpose-built venue makes it one of the more compelling expansion targets the promotion has publicly discussed.

No event date or card has been announced, and White’s comments remain aspirational pending the arena’s completion. If the construction timeline holds, a UFC Hawaii card could realistically materialise in the latter half of the decade.