Last updated on January 13, 2025
The mixed martial arts league wants to double its media money viewership of the UFC has grown over the last decade
By Arjit Kapur | Jan 11, 2025 at 11:08 a.m. ET Updated | The Budgets Pro
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is preparing to negotiate its next media rights deal, aiming to secure more than $1 billion per year—over double its current agreement with ESPN. The existing contract, valued at approximately $1.5 billion over five years, is set to expire at the end of 2025.
Current Deal and Financials
Under the present arrangement, ESPN pays the UFC around $300 million annually for exclusive broadcasting rights, including pay-per-view events and Fight Night cards. This partnership has been instrumental in expanding the UFC’s audience and enhancing its mainstream appeal.
The UFC and ESPN are entering an exclusive negotiating window this month. If a renewal isn’t secured during this period, the UFC plans to explore opportunities with other potential bidders, including major streaming platforms and traditional broadcasters.
Potential Bidders
Several media giants have expressed interest in acquiring UFC broadcasting rights:
- Amazon: The e-commerce and streaming leader is reportedly looking to expand its sports portfolio, with the UFC being a prime target.
- Netflix: The streaming service is exploring live sports content, with the UFC among its considerations.
- Warner Bros. Discovery and YouTube: These platforms are also potential contenders, indicating a competitive bidding environment.
Strategic Considerations
To achieve its financial objectives, the UFC may consider dividing its media rights among multiple partners, similar to the NFL and NBA models. This strategy could maximize revenue and broaden the organization’s reach across various platforms.
The UFC’s pursuit of a more lucrative deal aligns with a broader trend of escalating sports media rights valuations, driven by the increasing demand for live sports content in an evolving media landscape.
As negotiations commence, the UFC’s efforts to secure a deal exceeding $1 billion annually underscore its significant growth and the escalating value of live sports entertainment in today’s media market.
