UFC Pursues $1 Billion+ Media Rights Deal

The UFC is seeking to secure a new media rights deal worth over $1 billion annually, significantly surpassing the current $1.5 billion five-year agreement with ESPN, which expires at the end of 2025. The UFC is in an exclusive negotiating window with ESPN until mid-April 2025, but potential suitors include Netflix, Amazon, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Netflix is particularly interested after successfully streaming high-profile events like Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson, despite some technical issues. The UFC might consider dividing its rights among multiple platforms to maximize reach and revenue, similar to the NFL's strategy. While the UFC would like to continue its partnership with ESPN, the burgeoning market for sports rights presents lucrative opportunities for new collaborations. TKO Group Holdings, the UFC's parent company, is optimistic about securing a favorable deal in the current competitive sports media landscape.