Marquette, MI – August 12th, 2025 – Yesterday, UFC fans learned that the organization will be leaving ESPN and moving to Paramount+ in 2026. The deal, which spans seven years, has an annual value of $1.1 billion. This agreement will provide Paramount with 43 events per year, including 13 numbered events and 30 fight nights, with select marquee events also simulcast on CBS. As a result of this deal, UFC fans could save upwards of $1,000 by not having to pay $80 for each pay-per-view event.
In a related development, TKO, which owns both the UFC and WWE, announced a deal for both companies in the past week. WWE Premium live events will transition from Peacock to ESPN, as part of a separate agreement valued at $1.6 billion. Many TKO fans were confused by the UFC’s decision to leave ESPN, especially after both WWE and UFC were featured on the network.
Dana White, UFC president, said the deal is a win for the fans and athletes, spotlighting more exposure and affordability. Donald Trump has recently expressed interest in having a UFC at the White House. That would take place on July 4th, 2026.
