Weili Zhang took the strawweight title after quickly knocking out Jessica Andrade last August. Having their first Chinese champion is an important milestone for the UFC’s growth, and they have been immediately trying to capitalize on business opportunities that stems from it.
Just days after her championship victory, the UFC reportedly started negotiating to get $100 million in broadcasting fees in China. On Endeavor’s planned IPO, the UFC’s parent company also touted Zhang’s title win and its impact in the Chinese market and their bottom line.
Plans for Zhang included a first title defense in the US, which would include a heavy marketing push and promotional tour to grow her brand in the West.