Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers says it’s no surprise that his city is hosting a series of TKO Group Holdings events this year and next.
“Since I’ve been mayor, we have worked really hard to partner with everybody — not only for the benefit of Glendale but the state of Arizona,” he explained during an Aug. 4 press conference announcing the partnership,
“Being in the House of Representatives for eight years, going through the budget crisis, knowing that all the cities within Arizona actually get state-shared revenue because of events like this. It’s neat to be the host.”
During an Aug. 4 press conference at State Farm Stadium, stakeholders spoke about seven events set for 2026-2027 at that venue and the adjacent Desert Diamond Arena. The three-year agreement marks TKO’s first agreement with a state-level organization spanning UFC, WWE, PBR and Zuffa Boxing.
“Arizona is proud to be the first state to establish this kind of partnership with TKO, reflecting our commitment to innovative collaborations that create lasting economic opportunity,” said Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs in a video presentation.
“From hosting world-class sporting events to attracting leading businesses and investment, Arizona continues to prove that we do big things — and do them well. We’re excited to partner with TKO to deliver lasting benefits for Arizona residents by driving economic growth, creating opportunity and showcasing everything our state has to offer.”
Speakers at the press conference included newly crowned WWE Women’s Champion Chelsea Green; WWE Hall of Famer and Chapparal High School graduate Nikki Bella; Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill; Brandon Moreno, former two-time UFC flyweight champion; Eric Novoa, PRB cowboy, Arizona Ridge Riders; “Suga” Sean O’Malley, UFC athlete and Peoria resident; Jay Parry, president and chief executive officer of the Arizona Sports & Events Alliance Eric Novoa and Daylon Swearingen, PBR cowboys; State Farm Stadium general manager Melissa Wasson; and UFC President and CEO Dana White.
LEARN MORE: Arizona’s best experiences, voted by readers
“TKO’s globally recognized brands have an extraordinary ability to unite passionate fans from around the world through premier live events and media platforms,” Parry said.
“Over the next three years, hundreds of thousands of visitors will travel to Arizona for these signature events, creating an incredible opportunity to showcase our communities and reinforce Arizona’s reputation as a premier destination for world-class sports and entertainment — and as a vibrant hub for business and innovation.”
Launched in 2023, NOCHA: UFC is Sept. 12, Mexican Independence Day, at Desert Diamond Arena.
“We launched it to celebrate the Mexican people, Mexican fighters — the baddest human beings who have ever walked this Earth,” said White, who has a bull named Playmate.
“I can tell you — and most of you already know it — the WWE has a passionate global fanbase that packs stadiums. We’re looking forward to bringing that buzz and economic impact to the local community.”
Kicking off the Road to WrestleMania, the Royal Rumble sees 30 wrestlers enter the ring one by one. The last woman or man standing gets a title shot at WrestleMania.
“The stakes are crazy high,” said Green, adding she lasted the shortest time in the ring. “I’ll be sitting ringside seeing who my next competitor will be.”
Bella piped in, “Right here.”
The WWE Hall of Famer said fans travel from around the world to attend the Royal Rumble.
“I’m excited for the WWE fans, the Universe and the Bella Army to come here and experience our state,” Bella said.
“All of us who grew up here know we have such an incredible culture. We’re such a foodie state. There’s so much to soak in and do here. I can’t wait for everyone to experience that in February.”
Bull riding has a special connection to Glendale, Novoa explained. World’s Oldest Rodeo in Prescott is in the summer. He won the title in Glendale five years ago.
“I remember all of the crowd around the arena speaking my name,” he said.
Weiers said the economic impact goes beyond Glendale.
“It’s neat to be the mayor of such a wonderful city, but knowing that it also helps the entire state. And we get the bragging rights,” he explained.
“We have the best sports and entertainment district in the Southwest—not just Arizona but the Southwest. People are used to going to California. They look at Glendale, Arizona now.”
Upcoming schedule of TKO events in Arizona
NOCHE UFC: Sept. 12, Mexican Independence Day, Desert Diamond Arena.
Former interim UFC featherweight champion Yair Rodriguez will take on Jean Silva. Joining them on the card will be former UFC women’s flyweight champion and current No. 3-ranked contender Alexa Grasso faces No. 2-ranked Manon Fiorot. In addition, former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno, making his first appearance at NOCHE UFC, will face The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 winner Joseph Morales.
WWE Royal Rumble: February, State Farm Stadium.
The 40th annual Royal Rumble will take place in February 2027, marking the first time the WWE Premium Live Event will be held at State Farm Stadium. This will be Arizona’s third time hosting Royal Rumble following previous editions in 2019 and 2013. Royal Rumble will be headlined by the 30-man and 30-woman Royal Rumble matches, with the winners each receiving a championship match opportunity at WrestleMania 43.
PBR World Finals: Championship: May 20 to May 23, Desert Diamond Arena
PBR’s top riders and toughest bulls will face off as the sport’s best compete for a world title. PBR has deep roots in the state. The Arizona Ridge Riders are Arizona’s official PBR Team, representing the state in PBR’s team-based bull riding competition and helping elevate Western sports across the region. The team will host Ridge Rider Days at Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale (Oct. 8 to Oct. 10), providing a strong local foundation for the arrival of the PBR World Finals in 2027.
Zuffa Boxing, Details TBA
Zuffa Boxing, the new promotion led by Dana White and Nick Khan is also part of TKO’s multi-year partnership with the Alliance.
