UFC’s new ESPN deal marks the beginning of a new era
As of January, the UFC will start its five-year partnership with ESPN, the most popular mainstream sports network.
Seeing how far the UFC has come from its days with Spike TV, it says a lot on the sport and the company itself. Going from Spike to FX, then Fox, was a huge deal for the UFC. They will now be able to provide UFC fans with fights on the best sports network, making the opportunities to be limitless.
So what does this mean for the sport in general and the UFC?
It means higher ratings, a whole new audience, and a bigger platform to be covered by shows like First Take and Sports Center. The UFC will also have access to some of the best sports journalists to ever cover the sport of MMA. People are still very unaware that MMA is still growing and with the UFC being the pinnacle of the sport, ESPN will bring it to new heights. Promotions outside of the UFC will continue to benefit as well, the more mainstream MMA becomes. We’ve seen a rise of other promotions this year and the first ever MMA trade in history. Because of this, promotions like the Professional Fighters League, Bellator, Invicta FC, and Legacy Fighting Alliance will benefit with more viewership.
This could also change how much fighters are making in the UFC.
It could mean more money for the fighters and larger fight night bonuses, although fighters like Conor McGregor and Daniel Cormier will most likely only fight on PPV. However, you can expect over 20 fight cards next year, with the best fighters the UFC has to offer and a platform for new stars.
2019 will be one of the best years for both the UFC and MMA.
____
Make sure to follow The Scrap News (@thescrapnews) on Twitter.
Follow our writer Hiram Alvarado (@hiramwritesmma).
About Post Author
The Scrap
About Post Author
The Scrap
The Scrap is a combat sports news hub dedicated to bringing you creative MMA, Pro Wrestling, Bare Knuckle, and Boxing content. We choose highlight the indie and regional scenes as passionately as the big leagues. Aside from exclusives on our Patreon account, we also provide video content on our YouTube channel ranging from interviews to highlighting current events.
Related Posts:
Additional Content
George Lockhart previews UFC 309: Jones vs. Miocic
The Main Event Preview highlights the upcoming UFC 309 fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic, featuring insights from trainer George Lockhart. Scheduled for November 16th, this fight could mark a retirement for both fighters. With extended layoffs for Miocic, the discussion covers their legacies and stylistic matchups leading to predictions.
UFC 309: Main Card Predictions
UFC returns to The Big Apple for the 8th time as UFC 309 goes down inside Madison Square Garden. In...
Jonathan Kunneman: Defying The Odds
Jonathan Kunneman, a promising MMA fighter diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, faces immense challenges but remains determined to defy expectations. Despite the pain and difficulties of managing his condition, he trains tirelessly, pushing through both physical struggles and pandemic setbacks to achieve his dream of fighting in the UFC.
Miguel Navarro previews UFC 308: Topuria vs. Holloway
The Main Event Preview highlights the highly anticipated UFC 308 super fight between Ilia Topuria and Max Holloway on October 26th. Amateur fighter, Miguel Navarro, shares insights on Topuria’s preparation and style. With this matchup potentially altering the featherweight division, the event promises excitement and significance in MMA history.
UFC 308: Main Card Predictions
UFC returns to the infamous Fight Island for their 19th event in Abu Dhabi. Yas Island marks an important era...
AEW needs to fill the gap left by WWE leaving traditional TV
With AEW renewing their TV deal with Warner Brothers Discovery for three years, plus an optional year, it secures the...
Average Rating