UFC warns fighters about the 'dangers of Rio': favelas, prostitution and AIDS

UFC 190 takes place on August 1st, at the HSBC Arena, in Rio. Photo: Reproduction

The UFC returns to Rio de Janeiro, next Saturday (01), for the sixth time in its history. But not even the constant visits to the Marvelous City have alleviated some concerns about the athletes' safety. Although during other editions in Rio no fighter complained about problems in the city, the UFC warned its employees about favelas, AIDS and prostitution.

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Through an official document sent to all athletes and published by Ag. Fight, Zuffa – the company that controls the UFC – demands that athletes not leave the hotel alone and asks that meetings in nightclubs be avoided due to the risk of contracting AIDS.

“Zuffa is requiring all UFC employees not to leave the hotel except for event-related functions, or unless there are extremely important circumstances. You will need approval from a supervisor and they need to know your exact whereabouts”, says one of the excerpts of the statement.

“Avoid going out and arranging meetings in nightclubs, at the hotel or anywhere. You could be bait for a thief. There is a high incidence of AIDS among prostitutes and a considerable number also among minors. Always keep an eye on your drinks“, he adds.

Check out the full transcript of the document sent by the UFC to the athletes below:

UFC warns fighters about 'the dangers of Rio de Janeiro':

Zuffa is requiring all UFC employees not to leave the hotel except for event-related functions, or unless there are extremely important circumstances. You will need approval from a supervisor and they need to know your exact whereabouts, we need to know where the fighters are at all times

It is important to keep in mind:

• Because of the Vidigal favela, you must be extremely careful when arriving and leaving Rio Sheraton. Do not leave the hotel on foot, use the UFC vans.
• Extra security will be provided for our group within the hotel and for scheduled arrivals and departures, as well as on UFC chartered vans and buses.
• Never open your hotel room door until you confirm who is on the other side through your peephole or by calling the hotel front desk. Lock the doors from the inside and you can also use a rubber wedge that will be inside your hotel room to help prevent forced entry. (That's because a small hotel in Santa Teresa was taken over by bandits last month, who went from room to room with a master key and robbed all the guests).
• Only carry what you need. Little money (local), No jewelry, electronics, camera, etc.
• The risk of crime is highest at night, but it can occur at any time of the day or night.
• Never resist criminals, they may not hesitate to use force. Resisting an assault usually results in serious injury or death.
• Stay away from all favelas (Private companies offer tours that are not safe and should be avoided).
• Stay away from beaches at night and early in the morning.
• Never withdraw money on the street.

Areas to avoid:

• Any favela or surrounding areas,
• Santa Teresa is popular with tourists, but there is a high level of crime in the area.
• Lapa is known for its nightlife and clubs, but it also has the highest crime rate and should be avoided.
• Avoid going out and arranging meetings in nightclubs, at the hotel or anywhere. You could be bait for a thief. There is a high incidence of AIDS among prostitutes and a considerable number also among minors.
• Always keep an eye on your drinks.
• Leblon, Ipanema and Copacabana are the safest neighborhoods in the city.