UFC to Paramount: How the Move Could Change the Fight Game
The UFC is making a major shift in how fans will watch its events. Starting in 2026, the promotion will leave its long-standing deal with ESPN and move exclusively to streaming under a new seven-year, $7.7 billion agreement with Paramount. This landmark partnership will bring all UFC content — including 13 pay-per-view events and over 30 Fight Nights annually — to Paramount+ for one flat monthly subscription fee. Under the new arrangement, fans can watch every UFC event for $7.99 per month with ads or $12.99 per month without ads. This is a massive cost drop compared to the current model, where fans pay $79.99 for each pay-per-view main card on top of a $12-per-month ESPN+ subscription. For many fans, this shift represents a game-changing opportunity to follow the sport without breaking the bank.
The UFC also stands to benefit in several ways. In recent years, the promotion has faced challenges convincing casual viewers to pay for multiple events at premium prices. Many fans have turned to illegal streaming, unwilling to commit to costly PPVs and ESPN+. By moving to a streaming subscription model, the UFC can reach a much larger audience at a lower per-viewer price, which could ultimately increase overall engagement and loyalty. Financially, the deal marks a huge jump from the UFC’s current contract, which is valued at around $500 million per year. The new $1.1 billion per year average represents a significant boost in guaranteed revenue. That added investment could be used to expand global markets, improve production value, and potentially increase fighter pay — though how the UFC allocates those funds remains to be seen.
This move also aligns with a broader trend in combat sports and entertainment. Other promotions and leagues have already made the shift to streaming platforms, recognizing the growing preference for on-demand, all-in-one services. For Paramount, acquiring exclusive UFC rights strengthens its sports content lineup and could drive a surge in new subscribers. While the full impact of this deal won’t be clear until 2026, it’s evident that the UFC is betting big on streaming as the future of sports media. If successful, this partnership could reshape how fans consume mixed martial arts for years to come.
