Overview

• Starting in 2026, UFC numbered events and Fight Nights in the U.S. will shift from traditional pay‑per‑view to Paramount+ with select simulcasts on CBS under a seven‑year, $7.7 billion agreement.
• Dana White said fighters will now be told of $50,000 performance bonuses inside the octagon, a change highlighted at UFC 319 and described as a new practice going forward for standout finishes.
• The platform shift increases accessibility for viewers but leaves negotiations open on how to replace PPV‑point earnings for champions and headliners, as well as international rights and streaming operations.
• Boxing insider Rick Glaser reports Top Rank is finalizing a non‑exclusive monthly deal with a cable network new to boxing, with foreign rights retained by the promoter.
• ESPN’s combat‑sports portfolio continues to shrink, with the UFC leaving after 2025 and reports that ESPN will end its MLB rights after the 2025 season.