UFC recently signed an groundbreaking, $7.7 billion, seven-year agreement with Paramount that is sure to transform fight broadcasting. Beginning in 2026, fans will experience changes such as 13 events and 30 Fight Nights moving onto Paramount+ starting that year and replacing traditional pay-per-view models with subscription plans; UFC President Dana White stressed this change would coexist peacefully alongside this new format.
Chael Sonnen of former UFC contender status provided his perspective on X (formerly Twitter), to allay concerns regarding earnings and promotional motivation of main event fighters, by using Muhammad Ali’s example, who achieved greatness despite not fighting on PPV at any time in his life. This historical example serves to ensure the industry remains true and exciting even with changes to distribution strategies.
The alliance with Paramount will see the UFC’s full lineup of events, including its premier numbered events and Fight Nights, available on Paramount+ for a monthly subscription fee. This deal also plans for select events to be simulcast on CBS, potentially broadening the UFC’s audience beyond what the current ESPN deal offers. Financially, the partnership represents a significant increase in revenue for the UFC, promising to make the sport more accessible to fans while leaving the door open for exceptional PPV events according to Dana White.
Paramount’s acquisition follows an $8 billion merger with Skydance, positioning the UFC among some of the most influential entities in entertainment. Executives from both Paramount and the UFC have lauded the partnership for its potential to deepen fan engagement and elevate the UFC to one of the foremost sports globally.
Dana White’s big move leaves the boxing world divided
Transitioning away from PPV as the traditional revenue model has caused controversy within boxing circles, historically dependent on it as the revenue model for major fights. Figures such as Tyson Fury have voiced concerns regarding its future following UFC’s announcement; yet others within the boxing industry such as MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian and influencer Jake Paul maintain its relevance when hosting significant bouts that draw widespread interest.
Contradictory views highlight an ongoing dialogue about the shifting landscape of sports broadcasting and monetization, with UFC’s move toward subscription model fuelling debate about viability of pay-per-view (PPV). As this industry adjusts and shifts forward with changes, only time will tell how these will ultimately shape fan experience, fighter compensation arrangements, promotional strategies of major fight events as they adapt and adapt with them.