The worst mass shooting in U.S. history took place late Sunday in Las Vegas when more than 50 people were killed and more than 500 injured.

Complete details are still being gathered, but the situation has rocked the Las Vegas community, which includes an important sector of the fight scene.

The UFC has deep roots in Las Vegas. Its headquarters are located in the city, and it has promoted 111 fight cards in Sin City dating back to September 2001, with 31 at Mandalay Bay, where the shooting originated.

Additionally, the UFC has a major event in Las Vegas on Saturday with UFC 216, which airs on pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena. It appears the origination will move forward with the event, but today it released a statement recognizing the tragic nature of Sunday’s mass shooting (via Instagram):

“We are saddened by this senseless act of violence and offer heartfelt condolences to all those affected.”

Considering the presence the UFC has in Las Vegas after more than 16 years of hosting events in the city, it’s no surprise the news touched close to home with many UFC fighters. UFC 216 headliner Kevin Lee, who lives and trains in the city, released a statement (via Instagram):

https://www.instagram.com/p/BZwJl2lDrn0

“I woke up in LA this morning for a media tour to see the news. I don’t even think I can bring myself to talk about the fight, there are much bigger things in this world. My mind is on everyone affected, the dead, the injured, the witnesses, the survivors. It really puts things into perspective. Live everyday. Fuck these cowards.”

A large section of the MMA community – from UFC President Dana White to current champions, former champions and Las Vegas locals – also commented while both pleading for any available aid and sending thoughts and prayers to those impacted.

Praying for Las Vegas! Once again the unimaginable has happened, too many innocent lives taken and families changed forever! #PrayForVegas — Mike Goldberg (@GoldieOnTV) October 2, 2017

I'm honestly devastated for my city of Las Vegas, I'm sending prayers for all those caught in the horrific act of violence last night — Miesha Tate (@MieshaTate) October 2, 2017

Our thoughts are with Las Vegas and everyone affected during this time of tragedy. #PrayForVegas — Scott Coker (@ScottCoker) October 2, 2017

My heart is broken. 💔 My hometown. My friends and my family . This is so terribly sad. — Arianny Celeste (@AriannyCeleste) October 2, 2017

You think you have problems then something like that happens. Can't imagine what the families are going thru. — Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) October 2, 2017

My heart goes out to you Las Vegas🙏🏽💔 it's hard to understand that somebody could have so much worthless hate inside of them. — Vanessa Hanson (@vanessa_hanson) October 2, 2017

I hate to admit I don't feel safe in my own country anymore. We need better mental healthcare and stricter gun laws ASAP. @realDonaldTrump — Vanessa Hanson (@vanessa_hanson) October 2, 2017

Safe. Sad to read the news of the domestic terrorist attack here in Vegas. People are donating blood and showing up for one another. — Zebrinha MMA (@EricSpicely) October 2, 2017

What a sad way to start a day. News of this atrocity in Las Vegas. Thoughts and prayers with all. Ban automatic weapons!!! — michael (@bisping) October 2, 2017

My heart goes out to everyone in Las Vegas. Sending love and prayers to the victims and their families. — BJ Penn (@bjpenndotcom) October 2, 2017

Hope everybody can come together and send thoughts & prayers for Las Vegas and if you're in the area please donate blood. #PRAYERSFORVEGAS — Colby Covington (@ColbyCovMMA) October 2, 2017

The Blue Corner is MMAjunkie‘s official blog and is edited by Mike Bohn.