UFC Aims for $1 Billion Annual Media Rights Deal in Next Negotiations

Image Credit, Joey Velasquez

The UFC is reportedly targeting a groundbreaking $1 billion annual payout in its upcoming media rights negotiations, aiming to set a new benchmark in sports broadcasting. With its current $300 million deal with ESPN expiring in 2025, the promotion is looking to capitalize on its ever-growing global popularity and the rising demand for live sports content.

Several major players, including Netflix, Amazon, and Warner Bros. Discovery, have expressed interest in acquiring the rights. While ESPN retains an exclusive negotiation window, the UFC is exploring the possibility of splitting its events across multiple platforms. This approach, modeled after strategies employed by leagues like the NFL, could see pay-per-views, Fight Nights, and other content allocated to different networks and streaming services.

Dana White, the promotion’s CEO, has hinted at a preference for long-term stability, with deals that could span a decade or more. The UFC’s parent company recently finalized a $5 billion deal for WWE, showcasing the value of long-term commitments in the current sports media environment. Such a precedent strengthens the promotion’s case for achieving its ambitious financial goals.

If successful, the deal would position the UFC as one of the most valuable properties in sports, solidifying its influence and reshaping how fans consume mixed martial arts. The promotion’s ability to attract such a monumental agreement would not only validate its global appeal but also highlight the growing importance of combat sports in the competitive media landscape.