Just weeks after it was reported that ESPN will lose UFC live events in 2026, the network is reportedly negotiating to buy UFC Fight Pass and its video library.
Blake Avignon, citing multiple unnamed sources, reported that the deal is not finalized but talks are advanced. ESPN aims to integrate the UFC archive and selected live content into its new direct-to-consumer app.
ESPN launched the app on August 21 with two subscription tiers. The $11.99/month ESPN Select tier offers ESPN+ content, while the $29.99/month ESPN Unlimited tier includes all ESPN content.
ESPN targets UFC content
It is unclear how much of the UFC’s video library would appear on ESPN. This includes libraries from acquired promotions like PRIDE, WEC, and Strikeforce.
The acquisition’s impact on regional and smaller promotions remains uncertain. LFA, CFFC, Fury FC, and discipline-focused programs like UFC BJJ and UFC Fight Pass Invitational could see changes.
Archives of Dana White’s Contender Series and The Ultimate Fighter are also on Fight Pass. Some analysts believe these programs would stay with ESPN if the deal happens. They were not included in the UFC’s recent Paramount deal, which could lead to a split of UFC properties across different networks and streaming services.
Paramount deal covers live events
The UFC signed a seven-year, $7.7 billion U.S. broadcasting deal with Paramount. It covers 43 live events per year: 13 UFC numbered cards and 30 UFC Fight Night events. Select numbered cards will air on CBS.
The deal’s effect on the PFL remains uncertain, as its U.S. broadcasting rights with ESPN expire in 2026.
ESPN expands its sports portfolio
Despite losing UFC live events, ESPN has strengthened its content portfolio in August. Early in the month, it acquired NFL assets including NFL Network, NFL RedZone, and NFL Fantasy. The NFL gained a 10 percent ownership stake in ESPN in exchange.
Yesterday, ESPN secured MLB.TV rights, incorporating out-of-market broadcasts and in-market coverage for five MLB teams into its streaming service.
The network also acquired U.S. broadcasting rights for WWE Premium Live Events, UFC’s sibling under the TKO umbrella. The deal was originally set to start after WWE’s Peacock agreement expires in March 2026. A new arrangement now begins with WWE WrestlePalooza on September 20.
