Paramount Acquires UFC Rights in $7.7 Billion Deal with TKO Group

Paramount Global has acquired the rights to UFC events in a $7.7 billion deal with TKO Group, starting in 2026. The deal includes exclusive distribution of UFC's 13 marquee events and 30 "Fight Nights" on Paramount+, with select events also simulcasting on CBS. This marks a shift away from UFC's existing pay-per-view model and a notable jump from the $550 million ESPN pays annually for UFC coverage. The deal's average annual value is $1.1 billion.

Paramount Global has secured exclusive rights to Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) events in the United States, marking a significant shift in the distribution model for the mixed martial arts (MMA) events. The deal, valued at $7.7 billion over seven years, begins in 2026 and includes the exclusive distribution of UFC's 13 marquee events and 30 "Fight Nights" on Paramount+'s streaming platform. Select events will also be simulcast on CBS [1].

The agreement replaces the existing pay-per-view model, which was previously used by ESPN. This new arrangement aims to increase accessibility and grow the subscriber base by offering all events at no additional cost to Paramount+ subscribers. The average annual value of the deal is $1.1 billion, with payments weighted towards the later years of the contract [2].

This acquisition is part of a broader strategy for Paramount to expand its content offerings and subscriber base. The deal comes on the heels of Paramount's merger with Skydance Media, which brought in new leadership led by CEO David Ellison. The merger also led to a five-year, $1.6 billion deal with ESPN for the U.S. rights to WWE's premium live events [2].

The deal's value and scope reflect the global reach and popularity of UFC events. The UFC's live events reach nearly 950 million broadcast and digital households globally, with a roster of around 600 fighters from 75 countries. This global presence makes the UFC a highly desirable asset for streaming platforms [3].

The shift away from the pay-per-view model is expected to have a significant impact on the way UFC content is consumed. The new model aims to provide a more accessible and cost-effective way for fans to watch UFC events, potentially leading to increased viewership and subscriber growth for Paramount+.

References:
[1] https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/45943325/paramount-tko-group-reach-7-year-deal-all-ufc-events-us
[2] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/11/paramount-buys-ufc-rights-skydance-merger.html
[3] https://cosmicbook.news/paramount-ufc-exclusive-rights-2026