UFC releases statement on Las Vegas shooting; fighters react to tragedy

The worst mass shooting in U.S. history took place late Sunday in Las Vegas when more than 50 people were killed and more than 500 injured.

Complete details are still being gathered, but the situation has rocked the Las Vegas community, which includes an important sector of the fight scene.

The UFC has deep roots in Las Vegas. Its headquarters are located in the city, and it has promoted 111 fight cards in Sin City dating back to September 2001, with 31 at Mandalay Bay, where the shooting originated.

Additionally, the UFC has a major event in Las Vegas on Saturday with UFC 216, which airs on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena. It appears the origination will move forward with the event, but today it released a statement recognizing the tragic nature of Sunday’s mass shooting (via Instagram):

We are saddened by this senseless act of violence and offer heartfelt condolences to all those affected.

A post shared by ufc (@ufc) on Oct 2, 2017 at 9:55am PDT

“We are saddened by this senseless act of violence and offer heartfelt condolences to all those affected.”

Considering the presence the UFC has in Las Vegas after more than 16 years of hosting events in the city, it’s no surprise the news touched close to home with many UFC fighters. UFC 216 headliner Kevin Lee, who lives and trains in the city, released a statement (via Instagram):

I woke up in LA this morning for a media tour to see the news. I don't even think I can bring myself to talk about the fight, there are much bigger things in this world. My mind is on everyone affected, the dead, the injured, the witnesses, the survivors. It really puts things into perspective. Live everyday. Fuck these cowards.

A post shared by MTP (@motownphenom) on Oct 2, 2017 at 9:28am PDT

“I woke up in LA this morning for a media tour to see the news. I don’t even think I can bring myself to talk about the fight, there are much bigger things in this world. My mind is on everyone affected, the dead, the injured, the witnesses, the survivors. It really puts things into perspective. Live everyday. Fuck these cowards.”

A large section of the MMA community – from UFC President Dana White to current champions, former champions and Las Vegas locals – also commented while both pleading for any available aid and sending thoughts and prayers to those impacted.

A post shared by Dana White (@danawhite) on Oct 2, 2017 at 9:56am PDT

A post shared by Dana White (@danawhite) on Oct 2, 2017 at 10:00am PDT

Please pray for the victims and their families in #Vegas ???????? If you are in Vegas PLEASE donate blood for the victims who are fighting for their lives!! SWIPE LEFT???? to get more info on where you can DONATE #PrayforVegas

A post shared by Tyron Woodley (@twooodley) on Oct 2, 2017 at 11:17am PDT

Sad. Pray for the victims families. Over 50 dead and over 400 injured in Vegas last night

A post shared by Derrick Lewis (@thebeastufc) on Oct 2, 2017 at 7:18am PDT

I am completely shocked and saddened to hear of the mass shooting in Las Vegas. 50 killed and over 400 injured. I am in disbelief. I actually cancelled a trip out to Vegas this weekend. Vegas is so close to home, wondering and hoping all those that I know in Vegas are ok. Prayers and thoughts go out to the victims and their families. ????

A post shared by Carla (@carlaesparza1) on Oct 2, 2017 at 7:22am PDT

My heart is so crushed by what happened in Las Vegas last night.. my family is safe but I hurt for all the people who were there or had loved ones there. I sent texts out last night and could barely breath till I got replies. My heart is with my hometown, to all the people, enforcement, nurses, doctors, firefighters, volunteers… bless you. I know there are some of the best people there to handle this devastation. Vegas is strong, come together. ???? #yesimprayingforvegas

A post shared by GINA JOY CARANO (@ginajcarano) on Oct 2, 2017 at 8:26am PDT

As I board a plane for one of the biggest fights of my life my mind is on the tragic event that took place last night. Thoughts and prayers to those involved. #prayforlasvegas

A post shared by Cody Stamann (@codystamann) on Oct 2, 2017 at 8:22am PDT

Words can not express the sadness caused from last nights events. Our thoughts and prays go out to everyone. Class this evening is scheduled as usual. Please reach out if anyone is in need of anything supporting any way.

A post shared by DunhamJiuJitsu (@dunhamjiujitsu) on Oct 2, 2017 at 9:37am PDT

Wild how connected we all are. Sending love to Las Vegas! ????@teamalphamale @cody_nolove

A post shared by Urijah Faber (@urijahfaber) on Oct 2, 2017 at 9:30am PDT

I couldn’t believe the news I woke up to this morning, such a tragedy. I had considered going to this concert. #prayersforvegas

A post shared by CB Dollaway (@cbdollaway) on Oct 2, 2017 at 7:56am PDT

#prayforlasvegas I just woke up and heard about the tragic news! ???????????? #prayforlasvegas Acabei de acordar e ouvi falar sobre as trágicas notícias!

A post shared by CRIS CYBORG ????? #ufc219 (@criscyborg) on Oct 2, 2017 at 4:55am PDT

Las Vegas shooting! Please pray for the victims and their families. My heart goes out to all. Please please please donate blood, or services that the first responders need.

A post shared by Roy Nelson (@roynelsonmma) on Oct 2, 2017 at 9:24am PDT

*PLEASE SHARE** Syndicate MMA is hosting a charity seminar to benefit the individuals and families affected by the horrible shooting on 10/1 on the strip. All skill levels welcome and a $25 minimum donation is required. Please help spread the word!!

A post shared by Roxanne Modafferi (@roxyfighter) on Oct 2, 2017 at 11:12am PDT

I woke up to the insanely horrific news. Nothing but love to everyone in Vegas and everyone affected by this horrible tragedy all over the world.

A post shared by Joe Rogan (@joerogan) on Oct 2, 2017 at 7:45am PDT

The Blue Corner is MMAjunkie‘s official blog and is edited by Mike Bohn.