UFC to stream exclusively on Paramount in $7B deal – what fans need to know
UFC inks $7B deal with Paramount, ending pay-per-view
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is leaving ESPN and its traditional pay-per-view (PPV) model behind in a historic move. Starting in 2026, every UFC fight will stream exclusively on Paramount platforms under a $7 billion, seven-year media rights deal with TKO Group Holdings. This shift marks one of the biggest shake-ups in MMA broadcasting history, promising easier access for fans and potentially changing the way combat sports are consumed in the U.S.
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No More Pay-Per-View: All Fights Included in Paramount+
The most significant change for UFC fans is the elimination of the expensive pay-per-view structure. Instead, subscribers to Paramount+ will get access to the full UFC schedule, including UFC Fight Nights, numbered events, and preliminary bouts, all at no extra cost beyond the subscription fee.
Currently, PPV events can cost up to $80 on top of existing subscriptions. From 2026 onward, fans can watch the likes of Conor McGregor, Israel Adesanya, and Sean O’Malley compete without paying separately for each event. UFC President Dana White said the move “opens the door to millions more fans” by making the sport “more accessible than ever.”
Paramount has not yet announced an updated subscription price for 2026, but the current Paramount+ with Showtime plan is $11.99 per month. Industry insiders suggest the cost could rise slightly to accommodate UFC’s inclusion, but even with a price bump, the new model is expected to save frequent viewers hundreds of dollars per year.
When and Where to Watch UFC on Paramount
The Paramount deal kicks off in January 2026. In addition to streaming on Paramount+, select high-profile UFC events will air on CBS, bringing MMA back to network television for the first time in over a decade. International broadcasts will remain under separate agreements, so U.S. viewers will see the biggest changes.
Fans will also get access to exclusive behind-the-scenes content, fighter profiles, and original UFC programming produced in partnership with Paramount’s studios. This includes a planned docuseries on the UFC’s 30-year history, as well as expanded live coverage during fight weeks.
Industry analysts say Paramount’s investment in UFC is aimed at driving long-term subscriber growth, much like how the NFL deal boosted Amazon Prime’s viewership. With UFC’s consistent global appeal and loyal fan base, the company sees combat sports as a cornerstone of its streaming strategy.
As 2026 approaches, UFC fans can expect more details on scheduling, commentary teams, and potential interactive features within the Paramount+ app. For now, one thing is clear, the sport’s biggest stage is moving, and the days of $80 fight nights are officially numbered.