OneFC CEO Cui sees fight network as a sign of “exponential growth of MMA in Asia”

MMA Payout had the opportunity to speak with OneFC CEO Victor Cui about the company’s recent agreement with Glory Sports International to a fighter exchange program.

”[The move] shows the exponential growth of MMA in Asia,” Cui added, “It’s a distinct Asian approach.” Cui points to the collaborative and inclusive approach of the OneFC Network which was established during its Fighter Summit in 2011. Fighters in the OneFC Network are allowed to fight with other promotions and vice versa.

Although OneFC will not be promoting the event on December 31^st, Cui’s OneFC fighters will be on the card. Cui confirmed that Bibiano Fernandez, Shinya Aoki, Phil Baroni and Melvin Manhoef are scheduled to appear on the New Year’s Eve card to be held at the Saitama Super Arena in Tokyo, Japan.   Cui indicated that there may be more OneFC fighters although nothing had been confirmed.

Via OneFC press release:

Both internationally recognized organizations have agreed to fighter exchanges. It means that any GSI MMA fighter will automatically be eligible to compete exclusively in Asia on ONE FC and any ONE FC fighter will automatically be eligible to compete in GSI MMA events which are currently held under the DREAM brand in Japan. Fighter exchanges are expected to happen with immediate effect. The fighter exchange program also covers ONE FC Network of other affiliate association and gyms across Asia.

Highlighting this recent collaboration, Cui extolled the virtue of the OneFC fighter exchange program stating “it’s for the benefit of its fighters, fans and promoters.”  Cui indicated that the program ensures that the participating promotions will take care of its fighters.

As for OneFC, it plans on doing 12-14 of its own events in 2013 starting in Malaysia on February 2^nd. Cui projects the company doing 18-24 events in 2014.  It also boasts an ESPN television contract in Asia which will help with the promotion of its product.

Payout Perspective:

The fighter exchange is a unique idea and should bolster the New Year’s Eve show for Glory and Dream.  OneFC will still benefit from the exposure of its fighters at the event and will be able to utilize any Glory fighters for its own events.  With a television contract with ESPN, we should look for more promoters to work with OneFC.  Cui also indicated that OneFC will have big news with a major sponsor for 2013 which will be announced next month.  MMA Payout will keep you posted.