UFC officials are gearing up for a significant week as the exclusive negotiation window with ESPN concludes this Tuesday. This opens the door for other potential broadcasters to present their offers for the UFC`s TV rights, beginning in 2026.
Ari Emanuel, CEO of TKO Group Holdings, will spearhead these negotiations, continuing his leadership from previous UFC broadcast deals. Dana White, the UFC president, is keenly interested in the outcome. While the end of ESPN`s exclusivity doesn`t prevent them from securing a new deal, it does allow other networks and streaming services to enter the bidding.
“As the window opens, we will begin discussions with various interested parties to explore all available options,” White stated at the UFC 314 post-fight press conference. “As we`ve said before, we might consider broadcasting across multiple networks, similar to other major sports.”
White added, “I value our relationship with ESPN. Despite a somewhat challenging start, which is common in any partnership, we are now in a very positive place. Whether we renew with ESPN or choose a different path, I have only positive things to say about our time with them.”
There has been much speculation about the UFC potentially dividing its broadcast rights among several platforms, with many suggesting a major streaming service like Netflix as a likely contender.
Netflix`s significant $5 billion, 10-year deal for WWE`s Monday Night Raw is well-known, and both WWE and UFC share the same ownership. Furthermore, Netflix executives have previously expressed reservations about traditional sports bidding due to the seasonal format not aligning with their programming strategy.
However, this is not an issue for the UFC, as they host events throughout the year. White confirmed the UFC is prepared to collaborate with any broadcast partner to meet their specific needs.
“I`m uncertain about the specifics of the new deal,” White admitted. “It depends on the requirements of ESPN or any other network we partner with. These deals often involve tailoring content to the network`s needs, considering their existing programming schedules and commitments. It`s always subject to change and doesn`t concern me.”
Mark Shapiro, president of TKO Group Holdings, has echoed similar sentiments regarding the UFC’s broadcast rights. He has indicated the UFC is open to various possibilities for the new deal, including the potential for a broadcast partner to invest enough to eliminate the need for pay-per-view events in the future.
While White couldn`t speculate on specifics, especially with negotiations just beginning, he seemed open to the concept.
“We adapt to the network’s preferences. What are their goals?” White inquired. “Do they want to broadcast events conventionally? Are they interested in pay-per-view? Do they prefer a subscription-based model? I don`t have those answers yet. Starting Tuesday, as the window opens, we will engage with other networks and gain clarity on these aspects.”
Regarding the UFC`s desired price for the new broadcast rights—rumored to be at least $1 billion annually, a substantial increase from the current $300 million per year ESPN contract—White simply responded, “Sounds good to me!”
