Where to watch UFC Fights in Cairns
Cairns, in Tropical North Queensland, has a solid sports scene thanks to its backpacker, expat, and tourist crowd (especially Aussies and international visitors). UFC events are popular here, with most bars showing numbered PPVs and big Fight Nights live. Local time (AEST, UTC+10).
Next UFC to watch in Cairns in October 2026
BUCKLEY vs MALOTT UFC Fight Night Saturday 17th October 2026 in Edmonton Canada. Fight time in Cairns starts from 10am Sunday 18th October 2026.
Best Places to Watch UFC in Cairns (Sports Bars & Pubs)
Cairns has a mix of Aussie pubs, backpacker bars, and sports venues that reliably screen UFC. Expect big screens, sound on, cold beers, and lively crowds for title fights. Top spots (based on recent reviews and bar socials):
Casino Sports Arena
Location and Map link
Restaurant type
24 hours a day Sports bar, multiple large screens and a large amphitheatre with a massive screen for watching live sports.
Food Highlights at Casino Sports Arena
Flinders Bar and Grill Bistro serves awesome food. I highly recommend the steak sandwich.
| Bar Name | Location | Description | Type of Food Served |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Chambers Bar & Grill | Cairns CBD (Abbott St) | Central sports bar with multiple big screens; popular for UFC PPVs among locals and tourists. Opens early for prelims. | Pub classics (burgers, wings, steaks) |
| The Jack (Jack’s Bar) | Cairns CBD (Lake St) | Modern pub with huge screens, great atmosphere for UFC; often shows every fight with commentary. | Burgers, pizzas, bar snacks |
| The Pier Bar | Cairns Esplanade | Waterfront venue with outdoor screens; lively crowd for UFC, perfect for post-fight drinks. | Seafood, pub grub, cocktails |
| P.J. O’Brien’s Irish Pub | Cairns CBD (Shields St) | Classic Irish pub with TVs everywhere; strong for UFC, rugby, and Aussie sports. Packed on fight nights. | Irish stew, pies, fish & chips |
Hotspots: Most cluster in Cairns CBD (easy walk from hostels/hotels) or Esplanade. Check Facebook pages or WhatsApp groups (e.g., Cairns Expats) for “UFC live” posts. Many open 5-6pm for prelims.
Hotels with Sports Channels or Viewing Options
Most mid-range/luxury hotels in Cairns have Foxtel/Kayo or 9Now via smart TVs:
- Pullman Cairns International (CBD)
- Shangri-La The Marina Cairns
- Hilton Cairns
- Budget/backpacker spots (e.g., Gilligan’s, Cairns Central YHA) may not have TV channels – use 9Now app on phone/tablet.
Additional Tips
- Timing: Main cards ~6-9pm local (perfect evening viewing); prelims earlier (late afternoon).
- Crowds: Free entry; buy food/drinks. PPVs get busy – arrive early or reserve (some allow via phone).
- Costs: Beers ~AUD 8-12; food affordable. No cover charge usually.
- Events: Numbered PPVs draw biggest crowds; Fight Nights still shown at core bars.
Official Broadcast & Streaming in Australia
- Free-to-Air: Channel 9/9Now streams every match live and free (including prelims, main card, and finals) – no subscription needed.
- How to Access: Download the 9Now app (free account with Australian postcode) or watch on 9Now.com.au. Works on phones, tablets, smart TVs, or cast to hotel TV.
- VPN Note: If you’re overseas, use a VPN to connect to Australia for 9Now. No need in Cairns – it’s fully free and legal.
- Other Options: Foxtel/Kayo Sports (paid, ~$25-35/month) for extra commentary, but 9Now is sufficient and free.
Cairns’ bars make UFC viewing feel like home – cheers for knockouts, cold XXXX, and tropical vibes. Enjoy the fights!
Book Carins Hotels
Upcoming UFC fights to watch in Cairns in October 2026:
VOLKANOVSKI vs EVLOEV UFC 333 Saturday 24th October 2026 in UAE. Fight time in Cairns starts from 4am Sunday 25th October 2026.
Last updated 15th October 2026
Australian travel blogger and aviation enthusiast based in Sydney, living a relaxed retired life filled with daily flat whites. Passionate about exploring The World's hidden gems TripAtrek travel blog is on a mission: To share these gems with you.