ESPN Scores UFC Deal for the U.S.

Effective January 2019, ESPN+ and ESPN will become the exclusive digital and linear distributors in the U.S. for UFC mixed martial arts action.

UFC and The Walt Disney Company’s new direct-to-consumer and international segment, along with ESPN, have revealed full details of the multiyear agreement that makes ESPN-branded media platforms the exclusive digital and television home of the UFC in the U.S., further expanding streaming rights to UFC on ESPN+ and building on the agreement revealed earlier this month. The new pact covers 42 live events, 30 of which will feature a full card of 12 UFC bouts.

ESPN linear networks will broadcast 10 exclusive events as well as all UFC pay-per-view preliminary fights, while ESPN+ will offer 20 exclusive events and all preliminary fights for UFC on ESPN Fight Night programs. Events broadcast on ESPN will be branded UFC on ESPN Fight Night, while events streamed live on ESPN+ will carry the UFC on ESPN+ Fight Night tag.

Jimmy Pitaro, ESPN’s president and co-chairman of Disney Media Networks, said, “ESPN’s unparalleled multimedia platform is the perfect home for the UFC and will deliver tremendous value to both parties. UFC fans are passionate and loyal and we plan to bring the full power of ESPN’s live coverage, powerful storytelling and unmatched distribution to serve them in an unprecedented fashion. We can’t wait to get started.”

Kevin Mayer, chairman for direct-to-consumer and international at The Walt Disney Company, added, “The expansion of our relationship with UFC is an exciting development for fight fans. Delivering 20 exclusive UFC fight nights per year and a host of original content to UFC’s young, passionate and tech-savvy fan base, makes ESPN+ the clear new digital home for UFC and further establishes our new service as the leading platform for direct-to-consumer sports streaming.”

Dana White, president of UFC, said, “Every year for the last 18 years, we have taken this sport and brand to another level. We find innovative ways to promote our athletes and build stars. Today is another monumental day for UFC, our athletes, and our fans. We are now part of the ESPN family, recognized around the world as the pinnacle in sports broadcasting. I am very excited for this next chapter for UFC.”