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In a monumental sports media deal, newly merged Paramount Global and Skydance Media, under CEO David Ellison, have signed a $7.7 billion, seven-year agreement to bring mixed martial arts powerhouse Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) exclusively to U.S. streaming platform Paramount+. Starting in 2023, MMA fans can watch 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights annually, with select numbered cards simulcast on CBS. Ellison, emphasizing high-quality exclusive content as a key driver of subscriber growth, secured this deal amidst fierce competition from Netflix and Disney, who have recently invested in WWE and NFL rights, respectively.

UFC’s Big Streaming Deal: A Game-Changer for Paramount+ and the Future of Sports Streaming

In a major move that’s set to shake up the world of sports streaming, Skydance-owned Paramount has inked a mammoth seven-year deal worth around $7.7 billion USD to become the exclusive U.S. home of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). This landmark agreement, the first strategic move by newly merged media giant Paramount’s new CEO David Ellison, is a clear indication of the growing importance of live sports rights in the digital age.

Paramount+ Secures UFC’s U.S. Slate in Groundbreaking Deal

Starting in 2024, Paramount+ will exclusively stream all 13 numbered UFC events and 30 Fight Nights in the U.S., with select numbered cards also simulcast on CBS. Ellison praised UFC as a “global sports powerhouse,” highlighting the value this deal brings to Paramount+’s subscribers. The company will shell out an average of $1.1 billion annually, offering these events at no additional cost to users, marking a significant shift from UFC’s traditional pay-per-view model.

Why This Deal Matters: The Rise of Live Sports Streaming

In an era marked by accelerating cord-cutting, sports content, particularly live events, has emerged as a key driver for media companies seeking to boost subscriptions. Netflix, Disney, and others have all struck similar deals to strengthen their offerings. David Ellison’s strategic focus on high-quality exclusive content is clearly paying off with this blockbuster acquisition.

Did you know? UFC reaches around 100 million U.S. fans and nearly 950 million households globally, making it a highly coveted prize in the streaming wars.

What About Canadians? UFC Rights in Canada Remain Unclear

While Canadians can subscribe to Paramount+, it’s yet uncertain whether they’ll be able to stream UFC fights on the platform. Sportsnet, owned by Rogers, currently holds exclusive rights to UFC live events in Canada until 2024. CBC News has reached out to Rogers for comment, but the outcome remains to be seen.

Paramount Global and Skydance Media: A Merger Completed, A New Era Begins

Paramount Global and Skydance Media finalized their $8.4-billion merger last week, appointing David Ellison as CEO. This deal, marked by political scrutiny and shareholder concerns, signals a new dawn for the company, as it seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for premium sports content.

What Lies Ahead: Trends Shaping the Future of Sports Streaming

The UFC-Paramount+ agreement is just the latest in a series of high-stakes deals reshaping the sports streaming landscape. With more viewers cutting the cord, and more sports leagues recognizing the value of digital platforms, expect to see similar blockbuster deals in the future. Here are a few trends to watch:

• Exclusive Rights Deals: As seen with UFC, expect more sports leagues to strike exclusive rights deals with streaming services to reach a wider audience and boost subscriber numbers.

• The Battle for Exclusivity: With more platforms vying for sports rights, we can expect to see increased competition and higher bids for exclusive content.

• Sports Betting Integration: As legalized sports betting grows, expect to see more streaming services integrate betting functionality, creating a seamless viewing and wagering experience.

FAQ: All Your Burning Questions Answered

When will UFC be available on Paramount+?

UFC will start streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S. in 2024.

Will Canadians be able to watch UFC on Paramount+?

As of now, it’s unclear. Sportsnet currently holds exclusive rights to UFC events in Canada until 2024.

What does this deal mean for UFC’s traditional pay-per-view model?

This deal signals a shift away from UFC’s traditional pay-per-view model, with Paramount+ offering these events at no additional cost to subscribers.

Join the Conversation: Share Your Thoughts on UFC’s Streaming Future

Now that UFC is headed to Paramount+, we want to hear from you! Which UFC fights are you most excited to see? Which streaming service do you think offers the best sports experience? Let us know in the comments below.

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