UFC fans are wondering where they will be able to watch the fights starting in 2026.
ESPN has exclusively broadcast UFC in the US since 2018, a partnership that has benefited both sides. UFC`s regular events have attracted many subscribers to ESPN+`s streaming service. UFC and Dana White have seen significant financial success as the sport`s popularity grows.
However, this partnership might end when the contract expires in 2025. Negotiations haven`t resulted in a new agreement by the April 15th deadline for exclusive talks. Despite this, ESPN`s chairman, Jimmy Pitaro, has expressed continued interest in reaching a deal with UFC.
But, is it more likely that UFC will find a more profitable agreement elsewhere?
Experts Damon Martin and Alexander K. Lee analyze the top contenders for the next big UFC broadcast deal and what this could mean for viewers.
Martin: Netflix is the most discussed option for the next broadcast partner, and it`s clear why. Netflix has over 300 million subscribers globally, far more than ESPN`s approximately 70 million US households and ESPN+`s almost 25 million subscribers. Netflix`s reach is significantly larger.
Adding to this, Netflix recently signed a $5 billion, 10-year deal with WWE for Monday Night Raw. UFC and WWE share the same ownership, which could simplify negotiations and partnerships.
Netflix has historically avoided extensive sports programming due to the seasonal nature of many sports, which could lead to subscribers canceling after a season ends. This isn`t an issue with UFC, which holds events almost weekly year-round. If Netflix also acquires pay-per-view rights, making these events subscriber-exclusive (similar to the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight), it seems like an ideal combination.
Odds: +150
Lee: Partnering with Netflix seems like the most logical choice for UFC. Netflix has significantly expanded into sports entertainment, collaborating with Paul and Tyson for a highly viewed fight and partnering with WWE during a period of growth for professional wrestling.
Many former wrestling fans have resumed watching WWE due to its availability on Netflix. This convenience could greatly increase UFC viewership. If UFC can secure deals on international Netflix platforms, Dana White`s global expansion plans would be closer to reality.
Martin: UFC values its relationship with ESPN, as the Disney-owned network remains a leading sports platform. ESPN provides UFC with credibility. However, with record revenues, sold-out events, and a brand that rivals major sports like NFL, NBA, and MLB, this connection is less essential now.
ESPN+ has largely relied on UFC content for its subscriber base since its launch. ESPN is planning a new streaming service and would likely want to retain at least some UFC content. While ESPN might not be able to afford all UFC rights, retaining a portion, such as UFC Fight Night events, could be enough to keep them in the bidding.
Odds: +350
Lee: There`s a comfort in familiarity.
Although the UFC-ESPN partnership is only seven years old, it feels longer given the rapid pace of media evolution. Despite any criticisms of ESPN+ needing frequent Fight Night events, the familiarity of the current setup is undeniable. ESPN is still considered a top sports news source in the US, which has benefited UFC`s growth.
Maintaining the current partnership might be appealing if the financial terms are right.
Martin: Before the $300 million per year ESPN deal, UFC was close to partnering with Amazon Prime Video. While Amazon partnered with ONE Championship and Premier Boxing Champions instead, they likely recognize UFC as a missed opportunity.
Amazon`s significant investments in NFL and NBA broadcasting might make them hesitant to add another large UFC deal. However, Amazon`s immense revenue means they can afford it. Acquiring UFC from ESPN and potentially Netflix would solidify Amazon as a major player in live sports and align with Bezos` competitive approach.
Odds: +500
Lee: Bezos wants to make a big impact, especially as some Amazon streaming programs haven`t gained wide popularity. While UFC might seem unexpected for Amazon Prime, it could be the bold move needed to compete with other streaming services. The idea of watching UFC after shows like The Boys could be appealing.
Martin: Warner Bros. Discovery, parent company of HBO, TBS, TNT, and MAX, recently lost the NBA package, ending a long-term relationship. They still have NCAA March Madness, MLB, and NHL, and acquiring part of the UFC package would be beneficial, especially with limited major sports rights available soon.
In the past, UFC on HBO would have been significant, given HBO`s boxing history. However, HBO now focuses more on high-quality series like The Last of Us and House of the Dragon rather than sports.
While Warner Bros. Discovery has the platforms, it`s unlikely UFC would choose this deal unless the financial offer was exceptionally high.
Odds: +1500
Lee: This option seems very unlikely, but UFC on TNT with Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Bas Rutten would be entertaining.
Martin: Since UFC became a billion-dollar brand, they haven`t renewed with the same broadcaster twice. After Spike TV, they moved to FOX, then to ESPN. Now, many contenders are interested in sports rights, including Apple TV, Paramount, and potentially FOX again.
It`s unlikely UFC would accept less money to be on CBS Sports Network or FS1 again. Apple TV is a serious contender due to its financial resources.
Odds: +2000
Lee: UFC on the same platform as the movie CODA is amusing. Teaming up with Paramount, formerly Spike TV where Bellator MMA struggled, would be an ironic return.
Could UFC divide its rights among multiple partners? It seems less likely than keeping everything in one place for viewers.
