UFC’s current deal with ESPN is almost over, and significant changes might be coming. As the contract ends later this year, President Dana White is already looking ahead. He wants something huge for the next broadcasting deal. And when we say huge, we mean really huge.
Dana White is aiming for a staggering $1 billion media rights deal. With ESPN’s exclusive window closing, he’s now open to hearing offers from other networks, too. It’s clear—White believes the UFC is worth every penny of that billion-dollar dream.
Dana White’s Thoughts on ESPN and Exploring New Partners
At the UFC 314 post-fight press conference, Dana White spoke about the UFC’s five-year deal with ESPN. The partnership began in 2019 and helped make ESPN+ the main home for UFC pay-per-view events. White said the deal has been excellent but admitted it had a few rough moments at the start.
“We had a bit of a rocky start, which is normal in any relationship, but we’re in a great place with ESPN. Whether we re-sign with them or do not, I have nothing but great things to say about ESPN,” White stated.
As the deal nears its end, the 55-year-old is considering trying something new. He’s open to speaking with other networks once the window opens. “When the window opens we’ll obviously start talking to lots of different people,” he said. “We’ll see what the options are out there. It could be we wind up on several different networks like all other sports do.”
Dana White talks about the UFC‘s TV rights opening up on Tuesday, potentially leaving ESPN, altering number of events and leaving PPV.
“When the window opens we’ll start talking to lots of different people.” pic.twitter.com/iuCH0dvi6M
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) April 13, 2025
This multi-platform strategy is similar to other major sports organizations like the NFL and NBA, providing greater flexibility and exposure for the UFC.
What’s Next for Dana White and UFC?
Dana White also shared how the UFC’s future schedule and content might depend on its next broadcasting partner. He explained that it all comes down to what the network wants. “It depends on what ESPN or any new partner is looking for. These deals usually fit around the network’s needs. They also have other shows and sports to think about—different seasons and time slots,” White said.
When asked about the huge $1 billion price tag being talked about for UFC’s next media deal, White replied with a grin, “Sounds good to me.” His confidence isn’t surprising. UFC is growing fast around the world, and fans want more MMA content than ever before. That gives the UFC the power to ask for big money.
🚨 Netflix is rumored to be the UFC‘s next potential broadcasting partner, as its deal with ESPN ends this year.
(Via. @erichterrr & @nypost)▫️ pic.twitter.com/MQ6el7ZAjS
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) March 15, 2025
Whether ESPN stays on or another big name steps in—like Netflix or Amazon—the UFC is ready. They could take a cue from WWE, which signed a massive $5 billion, 10-year deal with Netflix for its flagship show, Monday Night Raw.
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