The UFC just signed a record-breaking $7.7B, seven-year streaming deal with Paramount+ beginning in 2026. Here’s how it ends pay-per-view, changes access, impacts Paramount stock (PSKY), and reshapes Dana White’s fight business.
UFC Paramount Summary
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Deal Overview | UFC signed a $7.7 billion media rights deal with Paramount Skydance (Nasdaq: PSKY), for seven years starting 2026. |
| What’s Included | All 13 numbered UFC events and 30 Fight Nights annually will stream on Paramount+, with select events on CBS. |
| Pay-Per-View Model Ends | This deal eliminates UFC’s traditional PPV system in the U.S.; fans will access fights through a standard Paramount+ subscription—no extra $80 PPV fee. |
| Dana White on the Deal | “Incredible for fans and athletes… making it more affordable and accessible,” said UFC president Dana White. |
| Paramount’s Strategy | New owner David Ellison sees UFC filling a summer sports gap. The deal is part of a broader plan to revitalize Paramount with premium live sports. |
Background & Strategic Context
- Paramount Skydance: Formed in August 2025 via the merger of Paramount Global and Skydance Media, with the combined entity trading under ticker PSKY.
- This UFC rights deal is one of the first major strategic moves under CEO David Ellison, aimed at revitalizing the brand through marquee live sports content.
- TKO Group Holdings, parent of UFC and WWE, negotiated the deal. TKO is publicly traded and includes UFC and WWE under one roof.
Why This Deal Matters — Industry & Fan Impact
For Fans:
- UFC fans no longer need to shell out $80 per event on PPV. A Paramount+ subscription (as low as $7.99/month for the ad-supported tier) now grants full access.
- This dramatically improves accessibility and removes paywalls—a long-time fan demand.
For Paramount:
- Adds a high-demand, year-round live sports offering that can bolster subscriptions and reduce churn.
- Complements an existing sports portfolio including NFL, UEFA, Masters, and March Madness.
For the Market:
- A seven-year, ~$1.1B/year commitment increases PSKY’s revenue visibility. Despite concerns about streaming profitability, this high-value asset could boost investor sentiment.
For UFC:
- Moves away from an outdated PPV model. In Dana White’s words, “This historic deal… makes it more affordable and accessible.”
- Expands exposure through mainstream CBS airtime and a widely accessible platform.
Paramount and @TKO announce historic @UFC
media rights agreement ⤵️https://t.co/5QHEZyZy7Nhttps://t.co/5QHEZyZy7N— UFC News (@UFCNews) August 11, 2025
Risks & Concerns
- Paramount+ Stock (PSKY): Media stocks, including Paramount’s, have struggled with subscriber growth and streaming losses—even pre-merger. This huge financial outlay heightens pressure for subscriber gains and profitability.
- Fan Reaction: Some long-time PPV buyers might resist switching platforms or feel ownership is diluted. Transition execution will be critical.
- Technical Execution: Paramount+ must deliver a high-quality, reliable streaming experience—UFC events demand stable, glitch-free delivery. Failures could tarnish both brands.
What’s Next — What to Monitor
- Subscription Growth: Watch for spikes in Paramount+ user numbers, especially after UFC’s first events move to the platform in 2026.
- Financial Reports: Future earnings calls will be under the microscope for ROI on this rights investment.
- Original Content: Paramount has the right to create UFC-based originals, opening doors to new shows and storytelling opportunities.
- International Rights: Paramount is exploring acquiring UFC’s international rights—a potential global expansion opportunity.
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