Dana White Looks Ahead to Future Beyond Last UFC Pay-Per-View

Dana White, the CEO of the UFC, is gearing up for the next chapter after the final UFC pay-per-view event under the ESPN contract. The contract comes to an end on December 31st, with the last ESPN card having taken place this past Saturday. This marks the conclusion of the UFC’s pay-per-view era, as the organization is set to transition to Paramount+ in January.

Reflecting on the journey of the past 25 years, White expressed gratitude for the partnerships that have come their way, including the significant role ESPN played in elevating the UFC’s status. The organization, once struggling for recognition, has come a long way, with White acknowledging the pivotal role of every partner in their evolution.

Looking ahead, the UFC is set to stream live cards, including premium events, on Paramount+ starting in January. This move signifies a significant shift for an organization that faced bans in multiple states when White assumed leadership in 2001. Over the years, strategic moves, such as landing key broadcast deals and forging partnerships, have propelled the UFC into the mainstream sports scene.

As the UFC bids farewell to the pay-per-view model, the organization anticipates reaching a broader audience through Paramount+ and CBS. White is optimistic that this shift will make the sport more accessible to fans, with premium shows being included for Paramount+ subscribers as part of the new deal.

Paramount+ subscribers can expect to enjoy UFC content at competitive rates, with plans for enticing programming like “The Ultimate Fighter” and “Dana White’s Contender Series.” The upcoming UFC 324 event, scheduled for January 24th at the T-Mobile Arena, promises a star-studded lineup, including a highly-anticipated women’s bantamweight title fight between Amanda Nunes and Kayla Harrison.

With the UFC embarking on this new chapter, White is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, especially with the robust marketing efforts planned by Paramount+. The organization is gearing up for an exciting future, highlighted by engaging content, major events, and the continued growth of the UFC brand.