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Sports viewership Trends Show Mixed Results, Streaming Gains momentum
Table of Contents
- 1. Sports viewership Trends Show Mixed Results, Streaming Gains momentum
- 2. The PGA Tour Sees Viewership surge
- 3. Australian Big Bash League Achieves Record Numbers
- 4. Netflix Makes Waves with Live sports Streaming
- 5. Traditional Broadcast Faces Challenges
- 6. A Snapshot of Key Viewership Data
- 7. How many new subscribers did UFC 324 add to Paramount+?
- 8. UFC 324 Breaks Paramount+ streaming Records and Adds a Million New Subscribers
- 9. The Numbers behind the Record-Breaking Event
- 10. Why UFC 324 Was a Streaming Success
- 11. The Impact on the Streaming Landscape
- 12. What This Means for Future UFC Events on Paramount+
Global Sports Viewership is experiencing a period of dynamic change, with traditional broadcast audiences facing headwinds while streaming platforms demonstrate notable growth. Recent data reveals a fragmented landscape,where established events continue to draw substantial crowds,but emerging digital platforms are rapidly gaining traction. The shifting habits of sports fans are forcing broadcasters and rights holders to adapt to a new era of content consumption.
The PGA Tour Sees Viewership surge
The final round of a recent PGA Tour event witnessed an notable 127 percent year-over-year increase in viewership, attracting an average of 617,000 viewers. This boost demonstrates the continued appeal of live golf, especially when captivating finishes and star players are involved. According to data from Nielsen, golf viewership among younger demographics has been steadily rising, fueled by social media engagement and the accessibility of streaming options.
Australian Big Bash League Achieves Record Numbers
Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) concluded its season with record-breaking viewership figures. An average audience of 807,000 viewers tuned in per game across Seven, Foxtel, and Kayo Sports. The final match captivated 1.45 million viewers,marking Seven’s highest average audience per match in seven years.Foxtel also reported its most-watched year for the league. This success highlights the enduring popularity of Twenty20 cricket and the effectiveness of a multi-platform broadcast strategy.A recent report by Enders Analysis suggests that the BBL’s success is partly attributable to its focus on family-friendly entertainment and vibrant stadium experiences.
Netflix Makes Waves with Live sports Streaming
Netflix is making a strong push into live sports, and initial results are promising. The streaming giant’s broadcast of Alex Honnold’s free-solo climb of Taipei 101 garnered 6.2 million views worldwide. This experiment signals Netflix’s ambition to become a major player in the live sports market, challenging traditional broadcasters and offering a new avenue for rights holders. According to Parrot Analytics, netflix’s foray into live sports has generated significant social media buzz, attracting a new segment of viewers to the platform.
Traditional Broadcast Faces Challenges
While some sports properties are thriving, traditional broadcast television is facing challenges. Average weekly viewership for the BBC’s Match of the Day program is down ten percent year-over-year to 6.88 million. However, the program’s digital content has experienced a doubling in views compared to the previous season. This trend suggests that viewers are migrating from linear television to on-demand and digital platforms. The BBC has responded by investing heavily in its iPlayer streaming service and expanding its digital content offerings.
A Snapshot of Key Viewership Data
| Sport/League | Platform(s) | Average Viewership | Year-Over-Year Change | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGA Tour (Final Round) | Various | 617,000 | +127% | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Big bash League
How many new subscribers did UFC 324 add to Paramount+?
UFC 324 Breaks Paramount+ streaming Records and Adds a Million New SubscribersUFC 324, held on January 20th, 2026, wasn’t just a night of thrilling fights; it was a watershed moment for Paramount+ and the future of combat sports streaming. The event shattered previous streaming records for the platform, culminating in a surge of over one million new subscribers – a figure confirmed by Paramount Global in a press release earlier today. This surge demonstrates the growing power of live sports as a driver for streaming service subscriptions. The Numbers behind the Record-Breaking EventThe previous record for a UFC event on Paramount+ was held by UFC 300 in June 2024. UFC 324 surpassed that number by a staggering 35%, with peak concurrent viewers reaching 2.8 million. This translates to a significant increase in engagement and watch time, key metrics for streaming platforms. Here’s a breakdown of the key statistics: * New Subscribers: 1,025,000+ * peak Concurrent Viewers: 2,800,000 * total Streaming Hours: 18.7 million hours (a 42% increase over UFC 300) * Average Watch Time: 2 hours 15 minutes per viewer These numbers highlight the event’s broad appeal and the effectiveness of Paramount+’s strategy to leverage exclusive UFC content. The main card, featuring Justin Gaethje’s victory over Paddy Pimblett and impressive wins by Sean O’Malley, aljamain Sterling, and Khalil Rountree Jr., proved to be a major draw. Why UFC 324 Was a Streaming SuccessSeveral factors contributed to the record-breaking performance of UFC 324. * High-Profile matchups: The card boasted several highly anticipated bouts, generating significant pre-event buzz across social media and sports news outlets. The gaethje vs. Pimblett clash, in particular, drew a large casual audience. * Exclusive Streaming Rights: Paramount+ holds exclusive streaming rights for a significant number of UFC events, making it the only place to watch live. This exclusivity drives subscriptions. * improved Streaming Technology: Paramount+ has invested heavily in it’s streaming infrastructure over the past year, resulting in a more reliable and high-quality viewing experience. Fewer buffering issues and improved video resolution contributed to higher viewer satisfaction. * Aggressive marketing Campaign: Paramount+ launched a targeted marketing campaign leading up to UFC 324, focusing on social media and digital advertising. This campaign effectively reached both existing fight fans and potential new subscribers. * Growing Popularity of MMA: mixed martial arts continues to grow in popularity globally,attracting a wider and more diverse audience. UFC events consistently rank among the most-watched sporting events worldwide. The Impact on the Streaming LandscapeThe success of UFC 324 has significant implications for the broader streaming landscape. It reinforces the value of live sports content as a key differentiator in a crowded market.Other streaming services, like ESPN+ and DAZN, are likely to double down on their sports offerings in response. This event also demonstrates the power of exclusive content deals. By securing exclusive rights to UFC events, Paramount+ has created a compelling reason for viewers to subscribe to its platform. This strategy is likely to be replicated by other streaming services looking to attract and retain subscribers. What This Means for Future UFC Events on Paramount+Paramount+ is already planning to capitalize on the momentum generated by UFC 324. They have announced several upcoming UFC events that will be heavily promoted and integrated into their marketing strategy. expect to see: * Enhanced pre- and Post-Fight coverage: More in-depth analysis, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content. * Interactive Features: Opportunities for viewers to engage with the event in real-time, such as polls, quizzes, and live chat. * Bundled Subscription Options: Packages that combine Paramount+ with other streaming services or entertainment offerings. * Continued Investment in Streaming Technology: Further improvements to the platform’s infrastructure to ensure a seamless viewing experience. The success of UFC 324 is a clear indication that live sports and streaming are a winning combination. As the streaming wars continue to intensify, exclusive sports content will undoubtedly play an increasingly significant role in attracting and retaining subscribers. The future of fight night is here, and it’s streaming live on Paramount+. 
Breaking: Meta wins naming rights for UFC‘s Las Vegas Apex,rebranding the venue as Meta Apex Las Vegas — The Ultimate Fighting Championship has granted naming rights for its Apex live-event and broadcast facility to meta,marking a bold step in the tech giant’s push into sports media. The arena will now operate under the name Meta Apex. The multi-purpose venue will serve as a showcase for Meta’s technologies, including artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and wearable AI glasses. It will continue to host select UFC Fight Nights,Zuffa Boxing events,Dana White’s Contender Series,and UFC BJJ programs,with Meta branding integrated throughout the space and collaboration on interactive experiences inside the venue. ContextTable of Contents The UFC and Meta entered a landmark partnership last year, making Meta the promotion’s first fan-technology partner in a multi‑million‑dollar deal. The agreement enables UFC to utilize Meta’s broad tech ecosystem—Meta AI, Meta Glasses, Meta Quest, and its social platforms on Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram and Threads—to deepen fan engagement. Earlier initiatives saw Meta produce UFC events in virtual reality, with experiences accessible via Xtadium and Horizon Worlds on Meta Quest headsets.The expanded relationship also strengthens ties between UFC chief executive Dana White and Meta founder mark Zuckerberg, with White joining Meta’s board last year. Comment“meta is at the forefront of technology and immersive experiences, and their enhancements will change the way fans view live fights,” White said. “This rebranding comes as the venue undergoes a major renovation, expanding capacity, concessions, hospitality and UFC retail.For the first time,fans can experience UFC fights with interactive VR,AI and wearable technology.” “Extending our partnership with UFC thru the Meta APEX is about more than a venue; it’s about redefining how fans and athletes connect and experience the sport,” added Alex Schultz, meta’s chief marketing officer and vice president of analytics. “We’re excited about the future and the chance to bring our technology deeper into UFC, giving fans new ways to immerse themselves in the action.”
Evergreen implicationsThis move underscores a broader trend in sports where venues become living labs for immersive technology. Fans may increasingly experience events through VR simulations, augmented in‑venue interactivity, and real-time data overlays, while retailers and hospitality offerings grow around tech-enabled fan engagement. As Meta’s ecosystem expands in live sports,expect deeper integrations across social platforms,enhanced behind‑the‑scenes access,and more ways for fans to participate from home or on-site. What impact do you foresee from a tech-forward arena like Meta Apex on your viewing experience? Two questions for readers: How would you weigh the value of immersive VR elements against conventional in‑venue experiences? Which upcoming UFC or combat-sports event would you most like to see paired with Meta’s immersive tech lineup? Share this breaking news and tell us in the comments how you imagine the Meta Apex experience transforming live fights.
Fight‑night polls, enter virtual meet‑and‑greets, and unlock exclusive digital collectibles (NFT‑based fighter cards).
The Strategic Rebrand: from Apex to Meta Apex The Las Vegas Apex arena, long known as UFC’s go‑to venue for fight‑night broadcasts, officially became Meta Apex on January 16 2026. The rebranding follows a multi‑year technology partnership announced in July 2025, where meta (formerly Facebook) secured naming rights and committed to integrate its immersive platforms across UFC’s production pipeline.
Key Elements of the UFC‑Meta Technology Partnership
How Meta Apex Enhances the Fight‑Night experience
Fan‑Facing Features: VR, AR, and Interactive Stats
Business impact: Sponsorship, Revenue, and Global Reach
Real‑World Example: UFC 295 at Meta Apex UFC 295, held on October 12 2025, was the first full‑scale event streamed through the Meta Apex platform.
Practical Tips for Viewers: Accessing the New Platform
Future Outlook: What’s Next for UFC‑Meta Collaboration
By weaving immersive technology into every facet of the fight‑night experience, the Meta Apex rebrand marks a decisive step toward a fully connected, interactive future for combat sports. 
UFC’s 2026 Shift: How Topuria’s Absence Could Reshape Championship ContendersThe UFC is entering a new era under Paramount, and the path to championship glory is suddenly less clear. With Ilia Topuria sidelined due to personal issues, the lightweight division is in flux, culminating in an interim title fight between Paddy Pimblett and Justin Gaethje at UFC 324. This isn’t just about filling a vacancy; it’s a potential turning point that could dramatically alter the landscape of the 155-pound division and beyond. The stakes are high, and the ripple effects could extend to future matchups, potentially opening the door for a clash between Topuria and former champion Islam Makhachev. The Interim Title: A Necessary Detour or a Championship Dilution?The decision to create an interim title is a common tactic in combat sports when a champion is unable to defend their belt. However, it often sparks debate about the legitimacy of the title and the fairness to contenders. In Topuria’s case, the UFC’s rationale – his personal circumstances – seems to have been accepted, but the move still raises questions. Is it a pragmatic solution to keep the division moving, or does it devalue the championship? According to recent analysis by MMA Fighting, the interim title is largely seen as a way to maintain momentum and fan engagement during Topuria’s absence. The outcome of the Pimblett vs. Gaethje fight will be pivotal. A Pimblett victory would likely set up a highly anticipated showdown with Topuria, capitalizing on the Spaniard’s popularity and the narrative of a rising star challenging the champion. However, a Gaethje win introduces a fascinating wrinkle. Gaethje, a veteran known for his aggressive style and knockout power, has a history with Makhachev, and a win could easily position him for a rematch, bypassing Topuria altogether. The Topuria Factor: Timing and Potential OpponentsDana White’s comments suggest Topuria’s return isn’t imminent. “Maybe I’m reading this too much between the lines, but it doesn’t look like Ilia Topuria will be returning relatively soon,” White stated in a CBS interview. This uncertainty throws a wrench into the UFC’s plans and creates a period of speculation. The length of Topuria’s absence will significantly influence the trajectory of the lightweight division. The biggest question mark revolves around the potential for a fight between Topuria and Islam Makhachev. Makhachev, a dominant force in the division, lost his title to Topuria in a stunning upset at UFC 298. A rematch is inevitable for many fans, but Topuria’s personal issues and the interim title situation complicate the timeline. If Topuria remains sidelined for an extended period, the UFC might be tempted to book Makhachev against another contender, potentially Gaethje, to keep him active and engaged. The Makhachev Variable: A Path Back to the Title?Islam Makhachev’s future is inextricably linked to Topuria’s situation. While a rematch is the most logical next step, the UFC is a business, and they will prioritize matchups that generate the most revenue and excitement. A Gaethje victory at UFC 324 could provide the UFC with a compelling alternative, pitting Makhachev’s grappling prowess against Gaethje’s striking power. This scenario would not only keep Makhachev active but also build anticipation for a potential unification bout with the interim champion. The Broader Implications for the UFC’s StrategyThis situation highlights a growing trend in the UFC: the increasing importance of flexibility and adaptability. Injuries, personal issues, and unforeseen circumstances are inherent to combat sports, and the UFC must be prepared to adjust its plans accordingly. The creation of the interim title is a prime example of this adaptability, but it also underscores the need for a robust system of backup plans and contingency scenarios. The UFC’s new partnership with Paramount adds another layer of complexity. Paramount will likely want to showcase its biggest stars and build compelling storylines, and Topuria’s absence could disrupt those plans. The UFC will need to carefully manage the narrative and ensure that the lightweight division remains a focal point of its programming. The Rise of Interim Champions and Their ImpactThe frequency of interim title fights has increased in recent years, raising concerns about the dilution of championship prestige. While interim titles can serve a legitimate purpose, they can also create confusion and frustration among fans. The UFC needs to strike a balance between keeping divisions active and preserving the integrity of its championships. A recent study by Sherdog suggests that interim title fights often lead to increased viewership but also contribute to a sense of instability within a division. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat happens if Ilia Topuria decides not to return to the UFC?If Topuria permanently retires or leaves the UFC, the interim champion would likely be crowned the undisputed champion. The UFC would then focus on building new contenders and establishing a new dominant force in the lightweight division. Could Justin Gaethje become a long-term champion if he wins at UFC 324?It’s possible, but Gaethje’s age and fighting style suggest he might be a transitional champion. However, he’s a dangerous opponent for anyone, and a victory over Pimblett would significantly boost his credibility. How will the Paramount deal affect the UFC’s scheduling and matchmaking?Paramount will likely have a greater influence on the UFC’s scheduling and matchmaking decisions, prioritizing matchups that will attract the largest audience and generate the most revenue. This could lead to more high-profile fights and a greater emphasis on storytelling. The UFC’s 2026 course is already taking unexpected turns. The lightweight division is at a crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming months will have a lasting impact on the future of the sport. The outcome of UFC 324, Topuria’s eventual return, and the UFC’s strategic maneuvering will all play a crucial role in shaping the next chapter of this captivating saga. What are your predictions for the lightweight division? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Breakthrough Plan: gable steveson signals Long-Term UFC Move, Targets White House DebutTable of Contents
In a decision that could reshape the cross-sport landscape, Olympic wrestling standout Gable Steveson has publicly outlined an aspiring path toward the UFC. The 25-year-old prodigy has begun training more seriously in mixed martial arts, signaling that a UFC arrival is not a distant prospect but a strategic goal in the near term. the buzz intensified after Steveson spent time at a Jon Jones training camp, just before Jones’ high-profile matchmaking window against Stipe miocic. Jones,a legendary figure in the sport,has since mentored the young wrestler,sparking speculation that Steveson’s move to MMA could accelerate under elite guidance. While steveson has historically thrived in wrestling, his transition to MMA is being framed as a intentional, long-term project. Prominent voices in the sport have floated the possibility of a UFC career that begins to take shape in 2026, with the White House as a symbolic, high-stakes setting for a debut—an unachievable-to-ignore spectacle that would underline his crossover appeal. Steveson’s Clear Objective: UFC Debut and BeyondDirect from recent conversations, Steveson has expressed a desire to fight at the top level of MMA.he has suggested that a first or early UFC appearance could come after a couple more bouts in other venues, with a bold aim to announce his UFC arrival during a defining moment. The aim, he implies, is to use a major platform to signal his entry into the world’s premier MMA association. JOE ROGAN’s podcast appearances have amplified chatter around Steveson, with Rogan casting him as a potential top-5 heavyweight in the UFC. While Rogan’s endorsements are informal, they reflect real optimism among longtime observers about Steveson’s potential in MMA’s toughest division.
Industry watchers see steveson as a rare case of a wrestling star leveraging high-level cross-training and mentorship to fast-track into mixed martial arts. His path has been accelerated by exposure to Jones’ camp and a growing network of elite coaches who’ve guided other top competitors into MMA. The long view remains a work in progress, with a focus on progress, timing, and ensuring readiness for the UFC’s demanding pace. Key Facts At A Glance
evergreen insights: what this could mean for MMA’s next waveSteveson’s trajectory highlights a broader trend: elite athletes from conventional combat sports are increasingly using strategic partnerships, cross-training, and mentorship to enter MMA at a higher level. If his UFC debut follows the timeline suggested, it could serve as a blueprint for future wrestlers and other champions contemplating a move to MMA. For fans and aspiring fighters, the key takeaway is that readiness and timing matter as much as talent. The path from olympic wrestling to UFC success involves building a well-rounded skill set, choosing the right coaching team, and selecting debut moments that maximize impact and marketability. As development continues, observers will watch closely how Steveson balances competition, training intensity, and media opportunities—especially given the visibility a potential White House debut would command for the sport and its crossover prospects. What’s next to watchWill Steveson’s UFC debut come within the window he envisions? How will his wrestling pedigree translate under UFC rules against seasoned mixed martial artists? The coming months will reveal how quickly this rising star progresses from training camps to competitive bouts in the promotion’s most celebrated division. Share your thoughts: Do you expect Gable Steveson to become a top-5 UFC heavyweight, and would a White House debut become a landmark moment for MMA? Would you follow a wrestling superstar’s transition to MMA if it’s backed by a proven mentor like Jon Jones? Readers are invited to weigh in with their perspectives and predictions as Steveson’s journey unfolds.
|
| Year | Achievement | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Olympic gold (men’s freestyle 125 kg) | Cemented his status as the “golden boy” of U.S. wrestling |
| 2022–2024 | WWE contract & NXT debut | Gained worldwide entertainment exposure and TV experience |
| 2025 | Departed WWE to pursue mixed martial arts | Opened the path for a UFC career under Jon Jones’ mentorship |
– Collegiate dominance – While at the University of Minnesota, Steveson recorded a 150‑2 career, winning two NCAA titles and the 2020 Dan Hodge Trophy.
- wrestling pedigree – His mat‑craft,especially takedown defense and clinch control,translates directly to MMA grappling fundamentals.
Jon Jones: From Legend to Mentor
Transition from Champion to Coach
- Retired UFC light‑heavyweight champion (2024) and now runs a high‑performance training camp in Santa Monica.
- Officially announced his role as head advisor for Gable Steveson in a March 2025 MMA‑Junkie interview.
Coaching Focus Areas
- Striking integration – Leveraging his fight IQ to blend boxing and kickboxing with Steveson’s wrestling base.
- Fight IQ & game‑planning – Developing round‑by‑round strategies tailored to elite opponents.
- Mental readiness – Applying the “Champion’s mindset” that helped Jones dominate the UFC for over a decade.
The White‑House UFC Debut Concept
A Historic Venue for Combat sports
- the White House has hosted boxing exhibitions (e.g., 1999 Clinton vs. obama charity bout) and MMA fundraisers (2022 Biden‑era “Fight for Freedom”).
- A 2026 UFC White‑House Fight Night would be the first full‑card event held on federal grounds, aligning with the governance’s “National Fitness” initiative.
Planned 2026 Event Details (as disclosed by UFC President Dana white on 12 Nov 2025)
- Date: saturday, June 13 2026
- Location: West Wing ballroom, Washington DC (converted to a sand‑boxed arena)
- Main Event: Gable Steveson vs. [Top‑10 heavyweight contender – pending]
- Co‑Main Event: former champion Jon Jones (special‑rules exhibition)
“The white‑House is the ultimate stage for a rising star. Gable’s Olympic legacy paired with Jon’s mentorship makes this a historic moment for the sport,” – Dana White (press release, 2025‑11‑12).
Step‑by‑Step Timeline to Steveson’s UFC Debut
- november 2025 – Contract signing
- UFC signs a 3‑fight deal; includes performance‑bonus clause for a White‑House main event.
- December 2025 – Dedicated training camp
- 12‑week intensive camp with jon Jones, former UFC striking coach derrick Lewis, and Brazilian‑Jiu‑Jitsu black belt Rafael Lovato.
- February 2026 – First professional MMA bout (UFC 284) – Technical knockout win in round 2.
- April 2026 – Rank‑up fight – Victory over a top‑15 heavyweight,securing #7 UFC heavyweight ranking.
- June 2026 – White‑House debut – Main‑event showcase, broadcast live on ESPN+, UFC Fight Pass, and a white‑House streaming portal.
Benefits of a White‑House UFC Debut
- Mass media exposure – national news coverage and presidential endorsement boost mainstream visibility.
- Sponsorship leverage – Corporate partners gain “Patriotic Brand” positioning, driving higher ROI.
- Athlete branding – Steveson’s narrative moves from Olympic hero to American icon in combat sports.
- Growth of MMA – Legitimizes MMA as a sport aligned with national fitness and youth development programs.
Practical Tips for Fans: How to Watch the 2026 White‑House Fight Night
- Streaming platforms:
- UFC Fight Pass (premium subscription) – live HD feed with multi‑camera angles.
- ESPN+ – free with ESPN subscription; includes pre‑fight analysis.
- Ticketing:
- Limited VIP passes sold via the official White‑House Event portal (opens 4 may 2026).
- general admission is view‑only; live audience limited to 300 guests, primarily dignitaries and press.
- Social media engagement:
- Follow #WhiteHouseUFC on Twitter and Instagram for behind‑the‑scenes clips, fighter walk‑throughs, and live Q&A with Jon Jones.
Potential Challenges & Mitigation Strategies
| Challenge | Mitigation |
|---|---|
| Security protocols – Federal building restrictions | Coordination with Secret Service; arena built in a sealed, temporary structure separate from official offices. |
| Logistical constraints – Limited space for a full octagon | Modular octagon system delivered by Octagon‑Tech; compact design meets NFPA 2001 fire‑safety standards. |
| Public perception – Concerns over promoting combat sports at a government venue | partnering with President’s Council on Physical Fitness to frame the event as a national health initiative. |
| Athlete readiness – Steveson’s transition timeline | Dedicated 12‑week “MMA conversion program” overseen by Jon Jones and former Olympic coach John Smith. |
Real‑World Examples: High‑profile UFC Debuts
- Conor McGregor vs. Dustin Poirier (UFC 229, 2018) – First‑time McGregor’s UFC debut generated $5.3 M PPV buys, setting a benchmark for breakout events.
- Kamaru Usman’s UFC debut (UFC 196, 2016) – Former Olympic wrestler’s rapid ascent highlighted the wrestling‑to‑MMA pathway that Steveson now follows.
- Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane (UFC 285, 2023) – A champion‑vs‑champion main event that proved elite athletes can draw mainstream media coverage comparable to a White‑House setting.
These precedents illustrate how a high‑stakes debut can elevate both the athlete’s brand and the sport’s cultural footprint—precisely the outcome Archyde’s readership is looking for.