Paramount and TKO Group have announced a seven-year media rights deal, making Paramount the exclusive U.S. broadcaster of all UFC events starting in 2026.
Under this agreement, all 13 major numbered UFC events and 30 Fight Nights will stream on Paramount+, with select events also airing on CBS. The partnership shifts away from the Pay-Per-View model, enabling Paramount+ subscribers to access these events at no additional cost, to increase accessibility and boosting subscriber engagement. UFC content reaches over 950 million households worldwide, with about 100 million fans in the U.S.
The contract averages $1.1 billion annually, with payments increasing toward the end of the term.
KEY QUOTES:
“I couldn’t be more excited to join forces with Dana, Ari, and Mark. Rarely do opportunities arise to partner on an exclusive basis with a global sports powerhouse like UFC – an organization with extraordinary global recognition, scale, and cultural impact. Paramount’s advantage lies in the expansive reach of our linear and streaming platforms. Live sports continue to be a cornerstone of our broader strategy — driving engagement, subscriber growth, and long-term loyalty, and the addition of UFC’s year-round must-watch events to our platforms is a major win. We look forward to delivering this premium content to millions of fans in the U.S., and potentially beyond.”
David Ellison, Chairman and CEO of Paramount
“This is a milestone moment and landmark deal for UFC, solidifying its position as a preeminent global sports asset. Our decade-long journey with UFC has been defined by continuous growth and expansion, and this agreement is an important realization of our strategy. We believe wholeheartedly in David’s vision and look forward to being in business with a company that will prioritize technology as a means to enhance storytelling and the overall viewing experience.”
Ariel Emanuel, Executive Chair and CEO, TKO
“Paramount is a platinum partner with significant reach. Our new agreement unlocks powerful opportunities at TKO for years to come – meaningful economics for investors; expanded premium inventory for global brand partners; and deeper engagement for UFC’s passionate fanbase. Just as importantly, our athletes will love this new stage.”
Mark Shapiro, President and COO, TKO
