UFC Signs $7.7 Billion Media Deal with Paramount Skydance
As of August 11, 2025, the UFC has finalized a seven-year, US$7.7 billion media rights agreement with Paramount Skydance, set to begin in 2026. The deal marks the end of the traditional pay-per-view (PPV) model, with all 13 major numbered events and approximately 30 Fight Night cards each year streaming exclusively on Paramount+, while select marquee events will be simulcast on CBS.
The move will double the UFC’s annual media revenue—from roughly US$500–550 million to around US$1.1 billion—and is aimed at improving affordability and accessibility, reducing piracy, and expanding the sport’s audience reach.
However, concerns remain over how the increased revenue will be distributed. Fighter compensation has historically remained low, estimated at just 16–18% of total revenue, and critics question whether athletes will benefit from the record-breaking deal.
What This Means for Australian Fans
As of early 2024, ESPN Australia & New Zealand hold multi-year rights, airing all UFC Fight Nights and Pay-Per-View prelims. No changes to that arrangement have been announced — the Paramount deal currently applies only within the United States.
For now, Australian fans should expect no disruption—ESPN ANZ continues as the primary platform for UFC content. However, the U.S. precedent—moving away from PPV toward all-you-can-watch streaming—might eventually influence global broadcast approaches, possibly leading to a similar model Down Under.
UFC 319
du Plessis vs. Chimaev
August 16th
UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs. Hernandez
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Roman Dolidze Anthony Hernandez
15 – 4 – 0 15 – 2 – 0
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