The UFC APEX first came around during COVID era MMA, and it’s still going strong.
The UFC used to be a venue sport, globetrotting to major cities and putting on fight cards worthy of the thousands in attendance. When the APEX was introduced, the intimacy of the fights was novel, as was the streamlined production, but fans quickly grew withered by the APEX product.
Often compared to a warehouse, the APEX venue doesn’t house as many spectators, and fans allege that APEX fight night cards pale in comparison to classic events. On top of this, highlight-reel moments and fan-favorite retirements have been spoiled by a lack of atmosphere; Anderson Silva – one of the greatest fighters of all time – retired to the tune of dozens of fans in attendance at the APEX Arena in 2020.
Now, it seems as though fans might get a bittersweet solution to the arena, as a UFC executive has disclosed details of a planned renovation for the venue.

UFC exec Marc Ratner details APEX arena improvements
It feels like APEX renovations have been in the headlines for months, with UFC CEO Dana White addressing rumors of the APEX closing down last year. Still, APEX shows continue to be scheduled, and fans are none the wiser about what’s happening.
Speaking to MMA Junkie, UFC Executive Marc Ratner discussed in detail what changes are coming to the UFC APEX in 2025, which should allow fans to envision an improved APEX venue.
“It’s [the APEX Arena] going to be enlarged,” said Ratner. “It still won’t hold a lot of people. . . . It’ll probably be seating about 1,000 is what I’ve heard. . . . Visually, it’s going to be pretty much the same.”
How the UFC APEX performed in 2024
Despite the UFC APEX’s prominent appearance in the UFC in 2024, it only accounted for 39 percent of all fights. Live fans witnessed 316 fights versus 201 fights inside the UFC APEX.
However, the APEX vastly outperformed live arenas relative to the number of fights hosted, having equal knockouts (56) and slightly fewer submissions (36 vs. 47). Live arenas had 177 decisions versus the APEX’s 104.
While these stats advocate for more APEX shows, the product would benefit from a live audience to enhance the atmosphere. If the renovation allegations hold, the APEX venue could parallel some of the smaller venue shows the UFC hosts on tour, which is a net benefit.