UFC's relationship with ESPN on the verge of collapse

Despite their deal reaching six years, the UFC and ESPN are both disappointed with their agreement, and the two powerhouses are on the verge of a split.

After partnering with ESPN in 2019, everything looked great for the UFC, which was now being broadcast by one of the biggest sports outlets in the world. Some of the biggest moments in MMA history have taken place during their collaboration, but it now looks like things have turned sour between the business juggernauts.

According to reports, both sides are dissatisfied with the recent state of affairs. Some concerns have been raised by the UFC with ESPN’s coverage.

The promotion is upset with ESPN for the issues that occurred during UFC 313; a huge event for the company, as arguably their current biggest star was headlining the event.

Technical problems have been a big factor in the organization’s disappointment.

On the other hand, ESPN isn’t pleased with the UFC for their apparent lack of pay-per-view sales. The cable sports channel expected much more when originally signing the deal and believes the UFC isn’t fulfilling their side of the agreement.

Reports suggest that PPV numbers are down and the infamous ‘PPV points’ model is slowly becoming worthless for fighters eligible for the incentive.

Related: The UFC is not the same without Conor McGregor’s star power

The UFC’s deal with ESPN is set to expire some time this year. With no plans on a renewal, the UFC are allegedly planning to push ahead in pursuit of a new broadcaster.

There have been strong links for the octagon’s new home to be on Netflix, though much needs to be discussed before that can be the case.

Netflix has forced their way into the live sporting event world. The streaming service has already ventured into the NFL, WWE, boxing, and could potentially be adding the UFC to its ever-growing catalog.

EXCLUSIVE: TKO/UFC Brass is “absolutely furious” ESPN after streaming issues marred UFC 313UFC can begin negotiating with Netflix, Amazon starting April 15. That and much more on @nypostsports 👇https://t.co/oiH1ARVb8z

— Erich Richter (@erichterrr) March 10, 2025