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Paramount acquires UFC rights in 7-year deal with TKO Group
In a groundbreaking move, Paramount has announced a massive seven-year agreement with TKO Group to exclusively distribute the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) events in the United States. The monumental partnership, set to commence in 2026, will see Paramount+ become the new home for all UFC content, marking a significant shift away from the pay-per-view model.
Under this historic deal, Paramount will broadcast the UFC’s prestigious 13 marquee numbered events and 30 “Fight Nights” on its streaming platform Paramount+, with select events also simulcasting on CBS. This monumental partnership aims to increase accessibility of mixed martial arts programming across the nation, reaching a broader audience than ever before.
“We believe our expansive reach in both linear and streaming platforms provides us with a unique advantage,” stated David Ellison, chairman and CEO of Paramount, emphasizing the company’s commitment to live sports as a vital part of its strategy for driving engagement, subscriber growth, and long-term loyalty. The addition of UFC events will undoubtedly be a significant draw, providing viewers with must-watch content.
Mark Shapiro, president and COO of TKO Group, praised the deal, asserting that it would foster “deeper engagement for UFC’s passionate fan base” while allowing athletes to compete on a new stage.
Financial details surrounding the agreement have been revealed, with an average annual value of $1.1 billion for the seven-year partnership. Paramount has also hinted at exploring international rights outside the United States as opportunities arise in the future.
TKO Group shares responded positively to the news, rising 1.4% in premarket trading on Monday.
As a significant milestone for both parties, this development marks a new chapter in the world of mixed martial arts and sports entertainment as a whole.
Source: www.cbsnews.com
