Paramount (NASDAQ:PARA) has locked in exclusive U.S. streaming rights to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) for the next seven years in a blockbuster agreement valued at $7.7 billion, significantly boosting live sports content on Paramount+.
Starting in 2026, the deal covers 43 events annually — including 13 major numbered pay-per-view style events and 30 Fight Nights — all accessible to Paramount+ subscribers at no extra cost, with select fights also airing on CBS.
This deal more than doubles the previous UFC contract with ESPN, which was roughly $500 million per year and will conclude at the end of 2025. Under the new agreement, Paramount will shell out an average of $1.1 billion annually.
Notably, this deal ends the traditional pay-per-view model for UFC’s biggest fights, replacing it with full access through a monthly subscription. Mark Shapiro, president of TKO Group Holdings (UFC’s parent company), highlighted that this shift is designed to attract younger viewers, remove viewing obstacles, and fight piracy.
The timing coincides with Paramount’s recent merger with Skydance Media, led by David Ellison, who is an avid UFC fan. Ellison emphasized the rarity of opportunities to acquire premier sports rights and described securing the comprehensive UFC package as crucial for Paramount’s sports strategy.
TKO Group, which owns both UFC and WWE, also inked a $1.6 billion deal with ESPN to broadcast WWE live events in the U.S.
UFC has grown into a global sensation over the past decade, drawing younger demographics and competing head-to-head with traditional sports like boxing. With broadcasts in over 210 countries, Paramount is eyeing international rights as they come up for renewal.
By offering UFC content year-round, Paramount+ gains a strong sports lineup that keeps subscribers engaged and helps minimize seasonal cancellations.
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