Paramount Secures Exclusive UFC Streaming Rights in $7.7 Billion Deal
Paramount and UFC announce a $7.7 billion, 7-year deal for exclusive streaming rights, starting in 2026. Get the latest details on the partnership.
Paramount has secured a seven-year, $7.7 billion deal with TKO Group Holdings to become the exclusive US home of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), starting in 2026. This landmark agreement marks a significant shift for the mixed martial arts giant, underscoring the growing value of live sports content in the streaming era.
New Streaming Model and Partnership Details
Under the terms of the deal, Paramount+ will carry the UFC's full US slate of 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights annually. Select numbered events will also be simulcast on CBS, broadening the sport's reach to traditional television audiences. This partnership moves away from the traditional pay-per-view model, making UFC content more accessible to fans without extra charges.
The deal, valued at an average of $1.1 billion per year, doubles the previous fee paid by ESPN. Paramount's CEO, David Ellison, emphasized the strategic importance of this partnership, highlighting live sports as a cornerstone of their broader strategy to drive engagement, subscriber growth, and long-term loyalty. Paramount may also pursue UFC rights in other markets as they become available, potentially expanding its global footprint.
Key Highlights of the Deal
Exclusive Rights: Paramount+ becomes the exclusive US home for UFC events.
Streaming Model: UFC events will no longer require pay-per-view, making it more accessible to fans.
CBS Simulcast: Select events will be simulcast on CBS, reaching a broader audience.
Global Expansion: Paramount may pursue UFC rights in other markets.
Subscriber Growth: The deal aims to drive engagement and subscriber growth for Paramount+
Paramount's Strategic Move into Live Sports
Paramount chairman and CEO David Ellison emphasized the importance of live sports in the company's broader strategy, highlighting the recent deal with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). “Live sports continue to be a cornerstone of our broader strategy,” Ellison said, referring to the UFC as a “global sports powerhouse.” This partnership solidifies Paramount's position in the live sports market, capitalizing on the growing popularity of mixed martial arts
The Rise of Sports Content in Media Strategy
With cord-cutting on the rise, sports content, particularly live events, has become a crucial component of media strategy. Companies like Netflix and Disney are bolstering their content offerings with live sports rights, including deals with prominent organizations like WWE. Paramount's $7.7 billion deal with UFC is a significant step in this direction, positioning the company as a major player in live sports broadcasting.
UFC and Dana White just announced PPVs are done
— Dudes Posting Their W’s (@DudespostingWs) August 11, 2025
UFC just signed a $7.7B, 7-year deal with Paramount, putting all numbered events on CBS and Paramount+ pic.twitter.com/LQpZsivc2L
Key Details of the Paramount-UFC Deal
- Deal Value: $7.7 billion over seven years, averaging $1.1 billion annually
- Content: Exclusive rights to UFC's 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights on Paramount+ streaming service
- Broadcast: Select numbered events will be simulcast on CBS broadcast network
- Accessibility: All matches will be offered at no additional cost to consumers, shifting away from the traditional pay-per-view model.
This deal underscores the growing value of live sports content in the streaming era and reflects Paramount's confidence in UFC's ability to drive new subscribers to its platform.
Paramount and Skydance Complete Merger
Paramount Global and Skydance Media finalized their $8.4 billion merger last week, concluding a prolonged process marred by regulatory hurdles and shareholder concerns. The newly formed entity, Paramount, a Skydance Corporation, began trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol PSKY. This strategic partnership aims to drive growth, innovation, and exceptional storytelling.
Merger Impact and Future Plans
The merger has sparked interest in Paramount's future plans, particularly regarding its extensive cable network portfolio and theatrical releases. With a focus on digital transformation, the company may streamline operations and explore new opportunities for growth. David Ellison, Chairman and CEO, emphasizes the importance of honoring Paramount's legacy while embracing innovation and creative excellence.
UFC Partnership and Reach
In a separate development, Paramount has secured a seven-year, $7.7 billion deal to become the exclusive US home of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The partnership will feature UFC's 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights on Paramount+, with select events simulcast on CBS. With approximately 43 live events annually, UFC boasts a massive following, reaching around 100 million fans in the US and nearly 950 million broadcast and digital households worldwide.
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