Key Questions to Address from UFC’s $7.7 Billion Agreement with Paramount+ and CBS
On Monday, TKO made headlines by sealing a massive deal with Paramount+ for the broadcasting rights of UFC events starting from 2026. The jaw-dropping agreement, valued at $7.7 billion over seven years, marks a significant shift for UFC and its fans across the United States by making pay-per-view events a thing of the past.
Imagine being able to enjoy all the UFC action without shelling out nearly $1,000 a year just for pay-per-view events. With 13 “marquee events” and 30 Fight Nights lined up for Paramount’s debut in 2026, fans will only need a Paramount+ subscription to catch all the action. No more extra costs for ESPN+ subscriptions on top of pricey pay-per-view fees.
While this move doesn’t address all the challenges faced by UFC, it certainly makes attending events more affordable for fans and opens up the possibility for a broader audience to engage with the sport. This shift is a win-win for both UFC and its passionate supporters.
Although the impact of this deal will be most felt by fans in the United States, the possibility of Paramount exploring UFC rights in other countries in the future could mean changes for viewers around the world. If you’re used to watching UFC events in one of the 210 countries where they are broadcast, this news could bring about some exciting developments.
Another key issue in the spotlight is fighters’ pay. With the UFC set to rake in $1.1 billion annually over the next seven years, many are hopeful that this could lead to an increase in fighters’ earnings. The contrast between MMA fighters’ pay and the staggering sums earned by boxers like Oleksandr Usyk highlights the need to ensure that fighters are fairly compensated for the risks they take in the octagon.
As we eagerly anticipate the unfolding of these changes, one thing is clear: the landscape of UFC is set to undergo a transformation that could impact fighters, fans, and the sport itself in significant ways. Stay tuned as more details emerge about this game-changing deal between TKO and Paramount+.
