Title: UFC Seeks a Whopping $1 Billion annually for Upcoming Broadcast Rights Deal
As the UFC's current broadcast agreement with ESPN nears its end in 2025, the mixed martial arts promoter is reportedly eyeing a significant boost in its media rights deal, aiming for a whopping $1 billion annually. This would represent more than double the current value of its ESPN contract, estimated at around $450 million per year.
The UFC inked its agreement with ESPN back in 2018, securing a five-year, $1.5 billion deal for domestic broadcast rights beginning in 2019. Shortly after, the contract was extended for two additional years and included pay-per-view broadcasts. Prior to this, FOX had aired UFC events from 2012 through 2018.
In 2024, UFC CEO Dana White shared his satisfaction with ESPN but acknowledged interest from other potential partners. He also hinted at the possibility of following the NFL's example and securing deals with multiple networks and streamers for future broadcast rights.
Sources suggest that the UFC is targeting a greater number of broadcast partners for its next deal, potentially emulating the approach of sports leagues like the NBA and NFL. Potential competitors for the UFC's broadcast rights include:
- Netflix: AI predictions point to Netflix as a serious contender, with estimates of a $2 billion deal for exclusive streaming of major pay-per-views. ESPN would retain Fight Night rights for an estimated $1 billion.
- Amazon: Amazon has expressed interest in the UFC in the past and could be a strong contender given its growing presence in sports streaming.
- ESPN: As the exclusive negotiating partner until April 15, 2025, ESPN will likely be involved in initial talks.
- Warner Bros. Discovery and YouTube: Other possibilities for broadcasting rights partners have also been mentioned, although specifics remain unclear.
In the intricate negotiations ahead, the UFC will strive to strike a balance between maximizing revenue and preserving the health of its brand while considering potential growth strategies, such as splitting packages or adding fight dates.
Tko mentioned that the UFC's current broadcast deal with ESPN is set to expire in 2025. Mark Shapiro, who has experience in television rights negotiations, believes that the UFC is aiming for a $1 billion annual deal with a new partner, more than doubling its current value with ESPN. If the UFC secures a deal with Netflix, as suggested by AI predictions, it could potentially earn up to $2 billion for exclusive streaming of major pay-per-views, while ESPN would retain Fight Night rights for an estimated $1 billion. Dana White, the UFC's CEO, has hinted at following the NFL's example and securing deals with multiple networks and streamers for future broadcast rights.
