UFC AND STARZPLAY Announce Exclusive Broadcast Partnership For MENA
Under the Deal a 24/7 Dedicated Channel will be Launced on STARZPLAY to Broadcast UFC Content
Dubai: The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), the largest mixed martial arts (MMA) organisation and STARZPLAY, a video streaming service, have joined hands for a broadcast partnership spanning multiple years. Under the agreement, STARZPLAY will possess exclusive broadcasting rights for all UFC content within the MNA region. Additionally, STARZPLAY will introduce a dedicated 24/7 channel, STARZPLAY Sports UFC, enhancing the accessibility and coverage of UFC events for fans across the region. Moreover, all UFC content will be available on STARZPLAY's mobile app, ensuring convenient access for viewers on the go.
STARZPLAY is set to live stream every UFC event, showcasing all preliminary fights and ensuring fans catch every moment of excitement. Beyond live event coverage, STARZPLAY plans to create Arabic-language content tailored to the region and offer extensive UFC on-demand content, including preview programs and original shows like UFC Countdown and UFC Connected.
Along with thousands of hours of premium entertainment content, STARZPLAY's new sports channel and UFC coverage will be available throughout MENA to all new and existing subscribers via the STARZPLAY app on Smart TVs, mobile platforms, and online at www.starzplay.com.
Next weekend, STARZPLAY will host an electrifying event with UFC® 300: PEREIRA vs. HILL, streamed live from Las Vegas. The event starts with the early prelims starting at 3:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 14. The night's highlight is a light heavyweight championship clash between Alex Pereira and Jamahal Hill. Additionally, fans can witness history with the first all-Chinese UFC title as Zhang Weili defends her strawweight championship against Yan Xiaonan. Furthermore, Justin Gaethje will defend his BMF belt against Max Holloway in what promises to be an unforgettable Fight of the Year contender. Packed with action, this thrilling card will be exclusively available on STARZPLAY.
David Shaw, UFC's Executive Vice President and head of International and Content, expressed the significance of the MENA region for the UFC, citing the success of live events in collaboration with partners such as the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. He emphasised the importance of the new broadcast platform provided by STARZPLAY, enabling the UFC to reach its expanding fan base in the Middle East and North Africa. Shaw praised STARZPLAY for its innovative approach to customising UFC content for the region and expressed enthusiasm for the partnership's commencement with UFC® 300.
Andy Warkman, STARZPLAY's Head of Sport, expressed excitement about the exclusive partnership with UFC in the MENA region, highlighting the UFC's strong connection with Abu Dhabi. Warkman emphasised STARZPLAY's commitment to delivering top-notch coverage of UFC events customised for the region's audience. He underscored the launch of the dedicated STARZPLAY Sports UFC channel and on-demand content hub as a testament to their dedication to showcasing premier sports content tailored for MENA viewers.
The UFC has established a significant presence in the Middle East, boasting a history of 17 events held in the region since 2010. Yas Island in the UAE notably served as the venue for Fight Island during the pandemic, ensuring the continuity of UFC events in a safe and controlled environment. Looking ahead, the UFC is set to return to Abu Dhabi on August 3 for a Fight Night at the Etihad Arena. Furthermore, the organisation is making history by hosting its inaugural event in Saudi Arabia on June 22.