Breaking: Several UFC Employees Attacked And Robbed At Gunpoint While In Rio For UFC 224

While the UFC hunkers down in anticipation of tomorrow’s UFC 224 event, several employees of the mixed martial arts promotion were apparently robbed at gunpoint on Thursday night.

News of the attack comes via ESPN:

Just spoke to UFC president Dana White about an incident that is apparently ongoing right now in Brazil. White was just told several employees and others associated with UFC 224 were held up at gunpoint near the host hotel in Rio. No one hurt. Police involved now.

Some UFC employees definitely involved. Have not heard of any fighters involved as of right now (weigh-in is tomorrow morning). Those affected arecanceling stolen passports and credit cards. White told me security footage is being pulled.

My thoughts are with all UFC staff and anyone else affected by the incident in Brazil tonight. Away from their families, there to do a job. The few details I’ve gathered are scary. Armed robbery on the beach, near hotel.

Here’s Ariel’s update on the report from ESPN, with a little more details:

Following up on a report from @bokamotoESPN, several UFC staff members in Rio & other individuals there for 224 were robbed at gun point last night outside the hotel. No one was physically hurt but many personal possessions were stolen, and I’m told it was very traumatic.

Multiple sources said no fighters were involved but non-UFC staff who are there for fighters were affected. Weigh-ins at the top of the hour.

On a personal note: very glad to hear no one was hurt. I’m sorry really great, hard-working ppl had to experience a nightmare like that.