WME|IMG invites entire 500-plus UFC roster to Las Vegas this weekend for ‘retreat’

Many UFC fighters will be heading to Las Vegas this coming weekend, but it won’t be to beat up an opponent.

WME|IMG, the company that recently purchased the UFC for a staggering $4 billion, has insisted the whole roster appear at Vegas for the “2017 UFC Athlete Retreat.” While everyone is encouraged to show up, fighters with conflicting schedules are excused. The UFC has promised to pay all travel expenses as well.

“This event represents a unique opportunity for you to interact with your fellow athletes, UFC staff and your new ownership group, while hearing from a wide variety of experts across sports, entertainment and business,” claimed an e-mail sent to the fighters recently.

While the new Owners of the UFC Ari Emanuel and Patrick Whitesell have been present at some fights since purchasing the outfit last year, they’ve yet to introduce themselves to all the fighters in an official manner. This event could help fighters meet their new bosses and create a better networking affect between all the people the company represents.

The retreat will be kicking off this coming Friday at the new UFC offices in Las Vegas, and will feature the grand opening of the UFC Performance Institute as well. Then on Saturday and Sunday, there will be a series of events for the gang to enjoy, too.

This isn't the first time the promotion has invited fighters to Las Vegas, past “summits” were carried out but were staggered, and with the launch of the new UFC headquarters and a chance to meet the new UFC owners, this year’s event seems to be a little different.