With the highly anticipated UFC White House card set for June 14th, featuring Spain’s Ilia Topuria vs. America’s Justin Gaethje for the undisputed lightweight title, UK-based UFC fighters recently shared their aspirations for a similar high-profile event on home soil. Following a recent UFC London event, these athletes were asked about their ideal UK venue and dream opponent for a grand domestic showdown.
Fighters’ Dream Venues & Opponents:
Shanelle Dyer envisions a royal clash, aiming for a championship bout against the reigning belt-holder at none other than **Buckingham Palace**.
Shem Rock, with his characteristic wit, chose **Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena**, declaring his city the “fighting capital.” For a playful matchup, he’d pick Anshul Jubli, but for a serious challenge, he’d face Dan Hooker, citing the ongoing rivalry with Paddy Pimblett. Rock expressed a preference for engaging, talkative opponents over silent ones.
Luke Riley aimed for the grandest stage, **Wembley Stadium**, hoping for the UFC’s first UK stadium show against fellow rising talent Kevin Vallejos.
Manchester native Lerone Murphy naturally opted for his hometown’s **Co-Op Live Arena**, expressing his desire to face featherweight legend Alexander Volkanovski, whom he regards as the GOAT of the division.
London’s own Nathaniel Wood echoed the desire for **Wembley Stadium**, imagining an exhilarating 80,000-strong crowd for a championship fight, believing the UFC could make it happen.
Christian Leroy Duncan (CLD) also set his sights on **Wembley**, naming former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya as an exciting potential opponent for both himself and the fans.
For convenience and passion, Louie Sutherland chose the **Tottenham Hotspur Stadium**, being a dedicated Spurs fan. As for an opponent, he lightheartedly declared, “F**king anybody!”
Welshman Mason Jones championed bringing the UFC to his homeland, selecting the **Principality Stadium** as the only venue large enough, where he’d love to headline against any formidable opponent who would give him the best fight.
Mario Pinto shared Shanelle Dyer’s regal vision, dreaming of a fight at **Buckingham Palace**, humorously suggesting a returning Lukas Brzeski as an “easiest matchup.”
Sam Patterson proposed his hometown’s **Vicarage Road** in Watford, challenging lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
Finally, Michael “Venom” Page (MVP) reiterated his long-standing desire to fight at **Old Trafford**, even suggesting a potential bout with Leon Edwards could still happen.
This collective vision highlights the immense ambition and diverse dreams among UK UFC fighters, showcasing their eagerness for a landmark event in their home country.
