UFC Anticipates Fox Sports 1 Debut to Move Forward as Planned in Boston

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Ultimate Fighting Championship officials announced Tuesday evening that the organization’s debut on Fox Sports 1 is expected to move forward despite a legal hang-up in Massachusetts.

Earlier today, the Boston Herald reported that the Aug. 17 event could be in jeopardy due to a state law requiring all foreign-born boxers and mixed martial artists to possess a social security number. The UFC later released the following statement:

“For the first time since 2010, the UFC is very excited to return to TD Garden in Boston on Saturday, Aug. 17, with a live event card to coincide with the launch of the Fox Sports 1 network. Tickets went on pre-sale today for the event and are already off to a tremendous start.

“There were some questions that surfaced regarding licensing requirements for mixed martial artists and boxers to have social security numbers in order to compete in the state of Massachusetts. Last week, these requirements were brought to UFC’s attention and we immediately began working to ensure that all athletes affected by this are in full compliance. We are continuing to work on this and anticipate a positive outcome.

“We look forward to bringing another successful event to Boston during an incredible week for sports fans in the city.”

UFC on Fox Sports 1 is headlined by a light heavyweight showdown between former champion Mauricio “Shogun” Rua and ex-title challenger Chael Sonnen and will also see onetime Strikeforce heavyweight ruler Alistair Overeem return to the Octagon against once-beaten Hawaiian talent Travis Browne. Eleven foreign-born fighters, including Rua and Overeem, are slated to compete at the event.