As it was previously reported, UFC is on the lookout for a new television contract and reportedly ESPN and FOX have agreed to split the rights to content (which you can find here). Today, we are seeing the first steps towards that relationship as WrestlingInc is reporting that the deal between UFC and ESPN has now been completed.

The multi-year relationship with ESPN will go into effect in January 2019 and will see exclusive, live content on ESPN+, as well as other ESPN stations. It also includes 15 live UFC events streaming on ESPN+ with full 12-fight cards. Right now, nothing has been announced with FOX yet, who’s current contract with the UFC will run out in December. Below are quotes from ESPN President and Co-Chairman of Disney Media Networks Kevin Pitaro, as well as UFC President Dana White:

Kevin Pitaro
“UFC is a premier global sports property with legions of incredibly avid fans. We are excited to be able to bring their world-class events and content to ESPN+ and the ESPN networks. This agreement shows the commitment we have to delivering fans the very best across our entire platform.”

Dana White
“I couldn’t be more excited to partner with The Walt Disney Company and ESPN on an agreement that will continue to grow our sport. UFC has always done deals with the right partners at the right time and this one is no exception. We will now have the ability to deliver fights to our young fan base wherever they are and whenever they want it. This deal is a home run for ESPN and UFC.”

EA’s Take: This is great for both the UFC and ESPN. I used to be a pretty avid UFC-watcher during the first days of shows like The Ultimate Fighter, but over the years it became very difficult to keep up with because quite frankly, channels like FS1 and the like are not even on my radar. I have always watched ESPN, so at least now I can find it should I choose to tune in. In terms of WWE, with FOX not being mentioned at all still, they still are at the negotiating table. Selfishly, I’d hate for WWE to go to FOX due to how I watch my television these days. Aside from that, USA Network and WWE are synonymous with one another in my eyes. The years they were on TNN/Spike are almost a blip in the radar now, something most people probably don’t even really remember. Money talks, but personally I can’t see why NBC wouldn’t pony up to keep WWE on the USA Network, easily its highest rated programming for what seems like forever now.

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