The UFC aimed to transcend the typical fight experience when it introduced the International Fight Week concept four years ago. Held annually in Las Vegas in early July, the event has grown every year to include more entertainment options for fight fans. This year, someone traveling to Vegas for Fight Week (July 7-12) could conceivably pack in five days of activities without ever stepping foot into the MGM Grand Garden Arena for the pair of fight cards on Saturday and Sunday. Want highlights?
The Ultimate Cookoff
Four fighters—heavyweight champion Fabricio Werdum, former welterweight champion Johny Hendricks, middleweight top contender Luke Rockhold and WWE crossover CM Punk—must cook a dish out of mystery ingredients. A celebrity chef and fans in attendance will pick the winner. July 9, 7 p.m., Lagasse’s Stadium at Palazzo.
Invicta Fighting Championships 13
Cristiane “Cyborg” Justino, considered one of the top female fighters in the world, headlines the women’s fighting promotion’s first Las Vegas card with a featherweight title defense against Faith Van Duin. Ronda Rousey’s best friend, Marina Shafir, is featured on the undercard. July 9, 7 p.m., the Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan.
Dropkick Murphys free concert
The Irish punk band, which several fighters (including UFC 189 headliner Conor McGregor) have used as their walkout music, headlines the annual concert on Fremont’s 3rd Street Stage. July 10, 9 p.m., Fremont Street Experience.
Ulti-man 5K
Run a 5K or partake in the one-mile fun walk alongside former UFC stars like Forrest Griffin and Matt Hughes. July 11, 7 a.m., starting at Fremont Street Experience.
UFC Hall of Fame induction
Former lightweight champion B.J. Penn and onetime commissioner Jeff Blatnick are among this year’s inductees into the revamped UFC Hall of Fame. A ceremony will be held shortly before UFC 189 begins. July 11, 11 a.m., UFC Fan Expo at Sands Expo and Convention Center.
Bud Light Pool Party
UFC stars and Octagon Girls have stopped by the official pool party with fans during International Fight Week in past years. July 12, noon-3 p.m., Monte Carlo.
