UFC Fighters Visit Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami

Ahead of UFC 327, superstars spend time with young patients to lift their spirits.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:18pm

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic interaction between UFC fighters and children in a hospital setting, conveying the emotional impact of the visit.UFC superstars bring joy and hope to young patients at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami ahead of fight night.Today in Miami

Ahead of UFC 327 in Miami, current and former UFC fighters Alexandre Pantoja and Joanna Jedrzejczyk visited Nicklaus Children's Hospital to spend time with young patients. The fighters played games, joined a radio station, and donated toys to help make the children's hospital stays a bit easier.

Why it matters

The UFC's annual visit to Nicklaus Children's Hospital is a long-standing tradition that helps shine a spotlight on the brave young patients and their families. The fighters' presence and donations provide a welcome distraction and boost morale for those facing difficult health challenges.

The details

During their visit, Pantoja and Jedrzejczyk spent time in the children's rooms, talking to the patients and their parents. They also joined a radio station broadcast from the hospital. In addition, Pantoja personally bought and donated toys to the hospital, wanting to make the young patients feel like 'Santa Claus' had arrived.

  • The UFC has been visiting Nicklaus Children's Hospital for the fourth consecutive year ahead of their annual fight night event in Miami.

The players

Alexandre Pantoja

A current UFC fighter who visited the hospital and donated toys from his own pocket.

Joanna Jedrzejczyk

A former UFC fighter who also visited the hospital and played games with the young patients.

Nicklaus Children's Hospital

A pediatric hospital in Miami that has hosted the UFC fighters for their annual visit ahead of the fight night event.

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What they’re saying

“I had a chance to go to the kids' room and talk to the parents and talk to the kids to give them some hope.”

— Alexandre Pantoja, UFC Fighter

“This is what I used to do before my fights and after my fights. It makes me an even more humble person and it helps me appreciate everything.”

— Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Former UFC Fighter

“When I come back here I go to the shopping center and buy a lot of toys and come back here and feel like Santa Claus.”

— Alexandre Pantoja, UFC Fighter

“Their road might not be the easiest, but it's definitely worth trying and fighting every single day. That's the value in life. Staying healthy and happy.”

— Joanna Jedrzejczyk, Former UFC Fighter

What’s next

UFC 327 will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2026 in Miami.

The takeaway

The UFC fighters' annual visit to Nicklaus Children's Hospital is a heartwarming tradition that brings joy and hope to young patients facing difficult health challenges. By spending time with the children, playing games, and donating toys, the fighters are using their platform to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they meet.