UFC Shake-Up: Massive Changes Coming to Pay-Per-View Model originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
UFC ends its ESPN era as Paramount deal promises no-paywall fight nights, nationwide CBS simulcasts, and a new era for fans
The UFC’s partnership with ESPN is ending at the conclusion of their current seven-year agreement, set to expire in early 2025. Since joining forces in 2019, the UFC and ESPN have served up unforgettable knockouts, jaw-dropping upsets, and plenty of fight-night drama through the ESPN+ platform—though fans still had to shell out extra for Pay-Per-View cards. Now, a seismic shift in how fight nights are delivered is about to land, one that could forever change the viewing experience for UFC fans in the U.S.
In a press release issued via PR Newswire, the UFC confirmed the upcoming move to Paramount as part of a new seven-year media rights deal with TKO Group Holdings.
The agreement will see all 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights streamed live on Paramount+, with select marquee bouts simulcast on CBS. Most notably, this move marks the end of UFC’s current PPV model for U.S. fans, making these events available at no additional cost beyond a Paramount+ subscription.
Breaking News 🚨UFC has a new home in 2026 only on @paramountpluspic.twitter.com/FUQjemPnBS
— danawhite (@danawhite) August 11, 2025
Dana White called the deal ‘incredible for UFC fans and our athletes,’ noting that it will make UFC more affordable and accessible than ever. He also highlighted the exposure boost from Paramount and CBS as a win for both fighters and the sport’s visibility. TKO executives echoed the sentiment, calling it a landmark agreement that expands UFC’s reach while strengthening its year-round schedule.
While many are optimistic about the Paramount era, the ESPN+ chapter leaves a mixed legacy. Early on, fans criticized the app as poorly organized and challenging to navigate—especially when searching for UFC content—though it did offer extensive replays and archives. The steepest complaint, however, came from paying PPV prices on top of an ESPN+ subscription. For fans, the new model promises a more streamlined, affordable, and accessible future for watching the sport they love.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 11, 2025, where it first appeared.
