UFC Eyes Netflix Partnership as ESPN Relationship Frays
Technical issues and declining pay-per-view sales strain UFC-ESPN deal, prompting speculation of a Netflix streaming agreement.
- UFC's partnership with ESPN has been plagued by repeated technical failures during major events, frustrating fans and fighters alike.
- Declining pay-per-view sales have diminished the value of ESPN's deal for both the UFC and its fighters, who rely on PPV bonuses.
- Dana White is reportedly seeking a new media rights deal worth $1 billion annually, more than double the current ESPN contract.
- Speculation suggests Netflix is a strong contender for UFC's next broadcasting partner, with insiders calling it 'almost definitely' the choice.
- Netflix's potential deal with the UFC could mark its first major foray into combat sports, following its recent $5 billion WWE agreement.