Overview

• Dana White said matchmaking began today for the first UFC event under the Paramount deal that launches in January 2026.
• White called lightweight champion Ilia Topuria a possibility to headline the Paramount debut, with no bout finalized.
• The seven-year, $7.7 billion agreement will place all Fight Nights and numbered events on Paramount+, with select pay-per-views simulcast on CBS.
• White signaled Dana White’s Contender Series is expected to move to Paramount, with details to be finalized.
• The ESPN era winds down with eight events remaining, and UFC 323 on Dec. 6 designated as the final ESPN pay-per-view headlined by Dvalishvili vs. Yan.