Why Conor McGregor’s UFC Return Prelims Aren’t on CBS

CBS has announced that it will not be airing any of the prelims for UFC 329 this weekend, despite having broadcast portions of previous UFC events. Instead, the network plans to air a one-hour primetime special on Friday night at 9:00 pm ET to promote the event and showcase weigh-ins for Conor McGregor and his opponent, Max Holloway. This special will also feature interviews with the fighters and a cameo appearance by UFC president Dana White.

The decision not to air the live event on CBS indicates a shift in strategy for Paramount. While all UFC events are streamed live on Paramount+, CBS had previously simulcasted portions of UFC 326 and 327 in March and April. In those instances, CBS aired the final hour of prelims and the first hour of the main card on broadcast television.

Representatives for Paramount and UFC parent company TKO declined to comment on the decision. Instead, CBS will be airing regular programming, including NCIS: Sydney and 48 Hours, during the time slot for UFC 329.

This move by Paramount follows Paramount’s decision not to air the UFC Freedom 250 event on the White House lawn in June. At that time, Dana White had hinted that the event might air on CBS following a multi-year deal between Paramount+ and UFC. Although the reasons for not broadcasting Freedom 250 on CBS are not clear, airing a significant event like UFC 329, which features Conor McGregor in his first fight in five years, could potentially attract more viewers to Paramount+.

Conor McGregor is a major draw for UFC and one of the most recognizable names in the sport. Tickets for UFC 329 are in high demand, with prices starting at $1,000 on SeatGeek. Given the significance of McGregor’s return, this event could serve as a powerful opportunity for Paramount+ to entice new subscribers through CBS and showcase the event to a larger audience.