Paramount and TKO Group Secure Seven-Year Deal for UFC Events in the U.S

August 11,2025,08:49 AM ET

Paramount+ Secures Exclusive Rights To Ultimate Fighting Championship Events In Landmark Deal

New York – Paramount Global has announced a groundbreaking seven-year agreement with TKO Group Holdings,making Paramount+ the exclusive home for all Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) events in the United States. The deal, revealed on Monday, marks a meaningful shift in how fans will access premier mixed martial arts content.

Starting in 2026, Paramount+ will stream the UFC’s entire schedule, encompassing all 13 marquee numbered events and 30 “Fight Nights.” Select numbered events will also be simulcast on CBS, broadening the reach of the sport to a wider audience. this move effectively dismantles the UFC’s long-standing pay-per-view model, aiming to deliver greater accessibility to fans across the nation.

The financial implications of this partnership are ample. the average annual value of the seven-year deal is estimated at $1.1 billion, according to a joint statement released by the companies. this investment underscores Paramount’s commitment to expanding it’s sports programming and attracting new subscribers to Paramount+.

Skydance-owned Paramount also indicated its intention to pursue international UFC rights as opportunities arise. This suggests a potential global expansion of the partnership in the future, further solidifying Paramount’s position in the world of combat sports.

The Evolution of Combat Sports Broadcasting

The landscape of combat sports broadcasting has undergone a dramatic change in recent years. Traditionally reliant on pay-per-view revenue, organizations like the UFC are now embracing streaming platforms to reach a broader audience and tap into new revenue streams. This shift mirrors a wider trend in the entertainment industry, where streaming services are becoming increasingly dominant.

The move to Paramount+ represents a strategic bet on the future of sports consumption. By bundling UFC content with its existing library of entertainment and sports programming, Paramount aims to create a compelling value proposition for subscribers.This approach could serve as a blueprint for other sports leagues and organizations looking to navigate the evolving media landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About The UFC-Paramount+ Deal

1. what does this deal meen for UFC fans?

   UFC fans will gain access to all live events through a Paramount+ subscription,eliminating the need to purchase individual pay-per-view events. This provides a more affordable and convenient viewing experience.

2. Will CBS still broadcast any UFC events?

   Yes, select numbered UFC events will be simulcast on CBS, offering a free-to-air option for some of the biggest fights.

3. How will this impact the UFC’s revenue?

   The $1.1 billion annual value of the deal provides the UFC with a stable and predictable revenue stream, possibly exceeding the income generated from the previous pay-per-view model.

4. What are Paramount’s plans for international UFC rights?

   Paramount intends to explore acquiring UFC rights outside the U.S. as they become available, signaling a potential global expansion of the partnership.

5. Is Paramount+ the only place to watch UFC events after 2026?

   In the United States, Paramount+ will be the exclusive streaming home for all UFC events, with select events also available on CBS.

6. How does this deal change the way combat sports are consumed?

   this deal represents a significant shift towards streaming as the primary method of accessing live combat sports, mirroring broader trends in the entertainment industry.

What are your thoughts on this monumental shift in the world of UFC broadcasting? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation!