UFC Celebrates $7.7 Billion Media Rights Pact with Paramount, Ending PPV Era

UFC Secures Billion-Dollar Broadcast Deal with Paramount Through 2033

LAS VEGAS, NV – UFC, the worldS leading mixed martial arts institution, has announced a landmark seven-year broadcast agreement with Paramount, beginning in 2026.The deal is valued at an average annual value of $1.1 billion, solidifying UFC’s position as a premier global sports property.

The agreement, weighted towards the latter years of the term, will see continued widespread distribution of UFC content across Paramount’s extensive network of platforms. This includes linear television channels like CBS, streaming services such as Paramount+ and Pluto TV, and digital and social media outlets.

UFC boasts a massive and highly engaged fanbase, reaching approximately 100 million fans in the U.S. alone.Globally, UFC programming is available in nearly 950 million households across over 210 countries and territories, broadcast in 50 languages. the organization’s roster features roughly 600 athletes from 75 nations.

“This partnership underscores the incredible growth and global appeal of UFC,” stated a representative from TKO Group Holdings,the parent company of UFC.

Paramount,a Skydance Corporation,encompasses a broad portfolio of entertainment brands including Paramount Pictures,CBS,Nickelodeon,MTV,and Showtime. The deal further strengthens Paramount’s position in the sports and entertainment landscape.UFC currently produces over 40 live events annually and maintains a notable digital presence with UFC FIGHT PASS®, a leading combat sports streaming service. Alongside WWE and PBR, UFC is a key component of TKO Group Holdings, reaching over 1 billion households worldwide and hosting more then 500 live events each year.

How will the shift from PPV to a Paramount+ subscription model affect the accessibility of UFC events for casual fans?

The Landmark Deal: A New Chapter for UFC & Fight Fans

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has announced a groundbreaking media rights agreement with Paramount Global, valued at a staggering $7.7 billion over ten years. This monumental deal signifies a pivotal shift in how fans consume UFC content, effectively ending the pay-per-view (PPV) era as we certainly know it. The agreement, finalized in august 2025, will see exclusive UFC content streamed on paramount+ and broadcast on CBS Sports networks. This represents a massive increase in revenue and exposure for the worldS premier mixed martial arts (MMA) organization.

Key Components of the $7.7 Billion Agreement

The deal breaks down into several key areas, impacting both the UFC and its viewership:

Paramount+ as the Primary Hub: Paramount+ will become the exclusive home for UFC Pay-Per-View events, transitioning away from customary PPV providers. This move aims to broaden accessibility and attract a wider audience through a subscription-based model.

CBS sports Network Coverage: CBS Sports Network will air live UFC Fight Night events, providing free-to-air access to a notable portion of the UFC schedule.

increased Content Production: The partnership will fuel increased content creation,including original series,documentaries,and behind-the-scenes footage,enhancing the fan experience.

Revenue Sharing & Fighter Compensation: While details are still emerging, the increased revenue is expected to positively impact fighter compensation, a long-standing point of contention within the MMA community.Discussions are underway to establish a fairer revenue-sharing model.

Global Expansion: The deal is expected to accelerate UFC’s global expansion, particularly in key international markets.

What Does This Mean for UFC Fans?

The end of the PPV era brings significant changes for fight fans:

Subscription-Based Access: Instead of paying $79.99 (or similar) per event, fans will need a Paramount+ subscription to access UFC PPV events. Paramount+ subscription costs vary, but offer a more predictable monthly expense.

More Accessible Content: Increased coverage on CBS Sports Network means more free-to-air UFC action.

Enhanced Viewing Experience: Paramount+ is investing in high-quality streaming technology, promising a superior viewing experience compared to traditional PPV broadcasts.

Potential for Bundling: Opportunities for bundling Paramount+ with other streaming services are likely, potentially offering cost savings for consumers.

Reduced Piracy: A more accessible and affordable viewing option is expected to curb illegal streaming of UFC events.

The Impact on the Pay-Per-View Model

This deal marks a significant blow to the traditional PPV model in sports entertainment.The UFC’s decision to abandon PPV reflects a broader trend towards streaming and subscription-based services. Other sports leagues are also re-evaluating their media rights strategies, recognizing the potential of reaching a wider audience through digital platforms. The shift away from PPV is driven by:

Cord-Cutting: the increasing number of households cutting the cord and opting for streaming services.

accessibility & Convenience: Streaming offers greater accessibility and convenience compared to traditional PPV.

Cost-Effectiveness: Subscription models can be more cost-effective for frequent viewers.

Ancient Context: UFC’s Media Rights Evolution

The UFC’s media rights journey has been marked by significant milestones:

Early Days (1993-2005): Limited television coverage, primarily on pay-per-view.

Spike TV Partnership (2005-2011): Increased exposure through Spike TV, building a wider fanbase.

FOX Sports Deal (2012-2018): A landmark deal with FOX Sports, bringing UFC to a major broadcast network.

* ESPN+ era (2019-2025): A five-year deal with ESPN+, establishing a