By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
UFC, the Ultimate Fighting Championship, a US mixed martial arts promotion company, which is based in Las Vegas, and Paramount+, a US subscription video on-demand over-the-top streaming service and owned by Paramount Skydance Corporation, have agreed a seven-year eye-watering US$7.7billion (around €6.58 billion) deal under which Paramount+ will become the exclusive home of all UFC events in the US.
The deal will begin in 2026, and Paramount+ will host all 43 annual UFC live events, including 13 marquee events and 30 'Fight Nights', throughout each year of the deal.
As a benefit to UFC fans, the deal ends the pay-per-view model, which traditionally has been used to date by UFC and ESPN, which expires at the end of this year.
Dana White, the President and CEO of UFC, commented:
“This historic deal …… is incredible for UFC fans and our athletes.”
And added:
“For the first time ever, fans in the US will have access to all UFC content without a pay-per-view model, making it more affordable and accessible to view the greatest fights on a massive platform …[and] … is a huge win for our athletes and anyone who watches and loves this sport.”
David Ellison, the CEO of Paramount Sky Dance Corporation, remarked:
“Live sports continue to be a cornerstone of our broader strategy - driving engagement, subscriber growth, and long-term loyalty.”
He also revealed that they are interested in buying the UFC international rights as well!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘