UFC is bringing its muscle to ESPN, locking in a deal with The Walt Disney Company’s new Direct-To-Consumer & International segment for a multi-year media rights agreement that will see exclusive live UFC content run on ESPN+, as well as across a variety of ESPN’s television, social and digital platforms, in English and Spanish, starting January 2019. The deal will see 15 live UFC events stream exclusively on the digital platform, with each event branded “UFC on ESPN+ Fight Night” with a full card of 12 UFC bouts. On the linear front, ESPN will carry a variety of UFC content including an exclusive, 30-minute special previewing upcoming bouts and breaking down match ups leading up to each UFC PPV.
“UFC is a premier global sports property with legions of incredibly avid fans,” said Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN President and Co-Chairman, Disney Media Networks. “We are excited to be able to bring their world-class events and content to ESPN+ and the ESPN networks. This agreement shows the commitment we have to delivering fans the very best across our entire platform.”
“I couldn’t be more excited to partner with The Walt Disney Company and ESPN on an agreement that will continue to grow our sport,” said Dana White, UFC President. “UFC has always done deals with the right partners at the right time and this one is no exception. We will now have the ability to deliver fights to our young fan base wherever they are and whenever they want it. This deal is a home run for ESPN and UFC.”
