The UFC has confirmed a landmark U.S. broadcast deal with media giant Paramount, worth an incredible US$7.7 billion over the next seven years.
Starting in 2026, the agreement will see the MMA organisation broadcast 13 numbered events and 30 fights nights per year on streaming platform Paramount+.
In a significant move, the deal means American fans will have access to all events through a subscription to the service, which currently costs a maximum of US$12.99, meaning there will be no "pay-per-view" events.
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Additionally, around four marquee shows per year will be simulcast on free-to-air network, CBS.
But what does all this mean for Aussie fans?
In January 2024, Foxtel announced they'd reached a new "multi-year agreement" for Main Event to be the exclusive home of UFC PPVs in Australia.
Additionally, in February last year, the UFC confirmed it had extended its agreement with ESPN Australia to broadcast all Fight Night events and pay-per-view prelims.
The end dates of both of those deals weren't made public.
So, at least for now, it's business as usual in Australia.
In announcing their agreement with the UFC, Paramount confirmed they're keeping an eye on the distribution rights in other regions.
"Paramount intends to explore UFC rights outside the U.S. as they become available in the future," a statement read.
Paramount+ service launched in Australia in 2021 and is currently priced at a maximum of AU$13.99 per month.
Their modest sport offering here is headlined by Socceroos and Matildas matches, as well as the men's and women's A-Leagues.
It remains to be seen whether Paramount's investment in the U.S. market will pay off, while the UFC remains a key component of Main Event's offering in Australia, ensuring Foxtel will be unlikely to give it up without a fight.
Further complicating things, Foxtel is currently in the process of merging with DAZN, having been purchased by the sports streaming powerhouse for AU$3.4 billion earlier this year.
Exactly how the UFC will fit into the DAZN/Foxtel business moving forward is also up in the air.