Aditya ChaudhuriSony Pictures Networks India has announced the extension of its exclusive broadcast rights agreement for the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for five years.
The terms of the renewed agreement include exclusive television and digital media rights for a wide range of UFC events through 2028.
Effective January 1, 2024, the renewed agreement includes exclusive coverage of 42 UFC LIVE events, encompassing 12 Pay-Per-View (PPV) and 30 Fight Night events each year, featuring both Main Card and Preliminary bouts along with additional content that includes UFC Countdown, UFC Connected, archived content as well as Dana White’s “Contender Series” — a ten-episode live fight series featuring up-and-coming talent trying to secure a UFC contract.
Sony Sports Network will also continue broadcasting live in Asia the “win and advance” tournament for the continent’s top MMA prospects called “ROAD TO UFC”.
Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer — Distribution & International Business, and Head — Sports Business, Sony Pictures Networks India, commented:
“We are delighted to extend our partnership with UFC for five more years. Sony Sports Network is the go-to destination for MMA fans in the Indian subcontinent. We have also seen the inclusion of ‘The King of Lions’ aka Anshul Jubli along with Puja Tomar in 2023 has raised interest for UFC in India. Our partnership extension with UFC allows us to continue the exclusive coverage of live UFC events in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu along with an expansive portfolio programming to engage our viewers.“
Kevin Chang, SVP and Head of Asia, UFC, said:
“We are delighted to continue our partnership with Sony Sports Network, which will remain the home for UFC in India. Sony Sports Network has been a valuable and trusted partner, helping to expand the UFC brand in many ways, from their ‘Ultimate Guide to UFC’ show, to their media and social promotions. We’re excited to extend our partnership and ushering in the next generation of Indian talent.“
