The UFC is set to kick off negotiations for a new broadcast deal in January 2025, with ESPN currently holding an exclusive three-month window to secure a renewal. The current partnership, which includes all UFC events and pay-per-views, has been crucial to ESPN’s streaming growth since it began nearly seven years ago.

Exclusive Negotiations with ESPN

Mark Shapiro, president and COO of TKO Group Holdings, confirmed that discussions with ESPN will start on January 15, 2025, and continue through April 15. Shapiro emphasized UFC’s desire to stay with ESPN due to their successful collaboration but left the door open for other bidders if no agreement is reached.

“Our window to negotiate is exclusive with ESPN/Disney from Jan. 15 to April 15,” Shapiro stated. “No formal conversations have started as of yet and let me be clear, it is our intention to re-sign with ESPN and Disney. Because they’ve shown that they do it best.”

He praised ESPN’s synergy, technological prowess, and marketing strategies, highlighting how Disney’s direct-to-consumer platform has been integral to UFC’s success.

Competition from Streaming Giants

Despite the strong relationship with ESPN, Shapiro acknowledged that other platforms are eager to enter the mix. As major streaming players like Netflix and Amazon seek to expand their live sports content, the UFC’s rights could become a highly contested prize. Shapiro noted that several outlets have already expressed interest, and if no deal is reached with ESPN, talks with these eager contenders will begin immediately after April 15.

“Having said that — there’s so many other platforms that are looking for premium sports content and again, the demand is outstripping supply,” Shapiro explained.

This competition is driven by the UFC’s unique offering of premium content without the overwhelming volume seen in other promotions, such as the WWE.

Future of Pay-Per-View and Broadcast Rights

Another key aspect of the upcoming negotiations is the future of UFC’s pay-per-view (PPV) model. After moving PPVs exclusively to ESPN+, the UFC now receives a set fee per event rather than relying on fluctuating sales. Shapiro revealed that UFC CEO Dana White was initially hesitant about this change but has since recognized its success.

Looking ahead, UFC is considering various strategies, including reclaiming control of PPVs or selling them as a separate package.

“The idea of us taking [PPV’s] back in house or splitting the package, the half-package, and selling to somebody else, we’re up for all of it,” Shapiro said, signaling UFC’s openness to new opportunities.

As the UFC approaches these critical negotiations, it remains clear that the organization’s growing value and dedicated fanbase make it a highly sought-after partner in the competitive sports broadcasting market.

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