What's Happening?
Combate Global, a mixed martial arts franchise, is set to move its production from Miami to Burbank, California. The franchise will begin filming 20 live events at Estrella TV's new studio starting in February.
This move comes after a six-year run on Univision and aims to tap into the larger media market in Southern California. Campbell McLaren, CEO of Combate Global and co-creator of the UFC, highlighted the benefits of relocating, including access to more talent both in front of and behind the camera. The relocation is expected to create approximately 60 jobs and generate an economic impact of over $1 million annually. The franchise plans to target the Mexican American market in Los Angeles, where it already has a significant viewership in Mexico, and hopes to attract new audiences, including the Korean community.
Why It's Important?
The relocation of Combate Global's production to Burbank is significant for California's film and TV industry, which has been striving to attract productions back to the state. The move is expected to boost the local economy by creating jobs and increasing economic activity. It also aligns with California's efforts to enhance its film and TV tax credit program, although Combate Global did not qualify for these credits as sports are excluded. By targeting diverse audiences in Los Angeles, the franchise aims to expand its reach and strengthen its presence in the U.S. market. This development underscores the importance of strategic location choices in the entertainment industry and highlights the potential for growth in media production within California.
What's Next?
Combate Global's relocation to Burbank is set to commence with the filming of live events in February. The franchise will focus on engaging its core audience and expanding its viewership in Los Angeles. As the production begins, stakeholders in the local economy, including businesses and workers, are likely to benefit from the increased activity. The move may also encourage other entertainment productions to consider California as a viable location, especially with the state's enhanced tax credit program. Combate Global's strategy to super serve its audience could lead to increased popularity and viewership, potentially influencing other sports franchises to explore similar relocation opportunities.
Beyond the Headlines
The decision to relocate to Burbank reflects broader trends in the entertainment industry, where location and audience demographics play crucial roles in strategic planning. By moving to a larger media market, Combate Global is positioning itself to leverage the diverse cultural landscape of Los Angeles. This move could set a precedent for other sports and entertainment franchises seeking to optimize their operations and audience engagement. Additionally, the focus on specific ethnic communities, such as the Mexican American and Korean populations, highlights the importance of cultural representation and inclusivity in media production.
