Paramount Nabs UFC Rights, MMA Events to Peel Off From ESPN in 2026
Paramount’s new CEO, David Ellison, has recently secured a groundbreaking deal for the company. In a major announcement, Paramount Skydance revealed a seven-year media rights agreement with TKO Group, marking a significant shift in the landscape of sports broadcasting in the U.S. Under this agreement, Paramount+ will now serve as the exclusive home for all UFC events in the country, effectively pulling the mixed martial arts events away from ESPN.
Commencing in 2026, Paramount will have the exclusive rights to distribute UFC’s full schedule of 13 marquee numbered events and 30 Fight Nights through its direct-to-consumer streaming platform, Paramount+, with some of the numbered events also being simulcast on CBS, Paramount’s flagship broadcast network. As part of this partnership, UFC and Paramount are moving away from the traditional Pay-Per-View model in favor of offering these premium events at no additional cost to Paramount+’s extensive subscriber base in the U.S. This strategic shift aims to enhance accessibility and engagement for sports fans while driving further growth for Paramount+.
David Ellison, Chairman and CEO of Paramount, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with UFC, emphasizing the global recognition and cultural impact of the organization. He highlighted Paramount’s advantage in reaching audiences through its linear and streaming platforms, with live sports serving as a cornerstone of the company’s broader strategy. The addition of UFC’s sought-after events to Paramount’s platforms is expected to resonate with millions of fans in the U.S. and potentially beyond.
Ariel Emanuel, Executive Chair and CEO of TKO, described the agreement as a milestone moment for UFC, solidifying its status as a leading global sports entity. He praised David Ellison’s vision and emphasized the importance of technology in enhancing storytelling and the viewing experience. Mark Shapiro, President and COO of TKO, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the economic opportunities for investors, enhanced inventory for brand partners, and increased engagement for UFC’s dedicated fan base.
In conclusion, the partnership between Paramount and UFC signifies a significant shift in the sports broadcasting landscape, with Paramount+ set to become the exclusive destination for UFC events in the U.S. This landmark deal is expected to drive engagement, subscriber growth, and long-term loyalty for Paramount, while offering fans unparalleled access to premium sports content. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration on Paramount’s WordPress platform.
