The fate of UFC 311 hangs in the balance as Los Angeles grapples with devastating wildfires that have wreaked havoc across the region. Scheduled as the UFC’s first major event of the year, UFC 311 is just eight days away, but the ongoing disaster has raised serious concerns about its viability.

Since Tuesday, five active wildfires have scorched more than 36,000 acres in Los Angeles County, prompting mass evacuations of over 150,000 residents. Accelerated by Santa Ana winds gusting between 80-100 mph, the blazes have claimed at least 10 lives and destroyed over 10,000 structures. The Palisades Fire, the largest of the infernos, has alone burned more than 20,000 acres. While calmer winds have aided containment efforts, officials warn of potential high wind resurgence.

The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) addressed the situation Friday, stating that “no decisions have been made” regarding UFC 311. “We are watching the ongoing wildfires and the subsequent emergency and disaster response in the Los Angeles area,” the CSAC said in a statement. “At this time, no decisions have been made about moving UFC 311, but we will continue to work with state and local officials and the UFC to determine the best course of action.”

Reports suggest that the UFC has begun contingency planning, with Las Vegas emerging as a likely backup location. If moved, the event could be held at the UFC Apex or T-Mobile Arena, which are available next weekend.

UFC 311, headlined by two title fights, features lightweight champion Islam Makhachev defending his belt against Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch, while bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili faces undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov.

As the wildfire disaster unfolds, fans await an official decision regarding the highly anticipated event.

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