Did Noche UFC Pay Tribute to Charlie Kirk at Texas?

Universities aren’t meant to be echo chambers, where the same ideas bounce back without challenge. They’re supposed to sharpen critical thinking by exposing students to opposing viewpoints, forcing them to either defend their beliefs or abandon those that don’t hold up. In that sense, campuses should be dangerous places, like rough seas that test resilience. Sadly for Charlie Kirk, he’ll never get that chance again.

The 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA was fatally shot on September 10 while attending an event at Utah Valley University. Struck in the neck, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after. In a moving message, his wife Erika vowed to carry forward his vision, promising to grow his work into something even larger. Staying true to that promise, Turning Point USA is already preparing a massive event to celebrate his life and legacy, and they won’t be alone in honoring his death.

Noche UFC plans tribute for late activist Charlie Kirk

Much like the New York Yankees and Chicago Cubs, two teams Charlie Kirk passionately supported, the NFL also paid tribute to him ahead of Thursday Night Football between the Packers and Commanders. Now, it’s Noche UFC’s turn to honor the late conservative activist.

Just hours ago, TMZ Sports reported that the UFC will pay tribute to Kirk during Saturday’s “Noche UFC.” The gesture is expected to take place near the top of the main event at 6 PM ET, live from Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. While the exact details of the tribute remain under wraps, the promotion is preparing something special in front of what’s expected to be a packed house.

For those who followed Kirk closely, the UFC’s involvement comes as no surprise. Dana White shared a warm relationship with Kirk, even appearing on his podcast back in 2023. Kirk, a lifelong sports fan, often praised White, once calling him the “best president of any sports league.”

At just 31, Charlie Kirk’s life was cut tragically short, leaving much unrealized. In the days since Kirk’s assassination, fighters across the MMA world, including Henry Cejudo, Jorge Masvidal, Gilbert Burns, and Aljamain Sterling, have expressed their condolences. And now one of the Dodgers’ highest-paid stars joined the queue.

Charlie Kirk remembered by Dodgers star in moving gesture

In the recent Los Angeles Dodgers game against the Giants, relief pitcher Blake Treinen paid tribute to Charlie Kirk on the field. As reported by thebsblr on Instagram, Treinen wore Kirk’s name on his hat, with a cross on both sides, honoring the late activist and friend.

Charlie Kirk and Blake Treinen shared a deep commitment to their faith, grounded in Jesus and Christian teachings. Harrison Butker praised Kirk, saying, “Thank you for your strong witness for Christ, pursuing truth and leading your family faithfully.” Pat McAfee added, “Watching a man get hunted and slayed because of his opinions made me disgusted and devastated.”

Despite his activism, Kirk’s love for sports remained strong, especially for baseball and the Chicago Cubs. Erika Kirk fondly recalled his playful nature, cheerfully saying, “Go Ducks,” reflecting the joy he found in simple Sunday traditions. NFL stars like Jaxson Dart and Julian Edelman also offered condolences, reminding everyone that political violence must end.

In a world often focused on home runs and highlight reels, Charlie Kirk’s life reminds us that courage, faith, and conviction deserve their own spotlight. We at EssentiallySports extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends. Rest in peace, Charlie Kirk.