What's Happening?
Paramount, in collaboration with the UFC, has announced that Paramount+ will exclusively host new episodes of Dana White's Contender Series and The Ultimate Fighter in Australia starting in 2026. This
move is part of a broader strategy to enhance the streaming service's sports offerings. The Contender Series, which began in 2017, serves as a platform for aspiring UFC fighters to earn contracts, while The Ultimate Fighter is a reality series that has introduced many future UFC champions. The partnership will also include live UFC Fight Night events and prelim fights for all numbered events, available to Paramount+ subscribers in Australia from January 2026.
Why It's Important?
This partnership signifies a strategic expansion for Paramount+ in the sports streaming market, particularly in Australia. By securing exclusive rights to popular UFC content, Paramount+ aims to attract a broader audience and increase its subscriber base. The inclusion of these series highlights the growing demand for sports content on streaming platforms, as traditional cable viewership declines. For the UFC, this partnership provides an opportunity to reach new audiences and expand its fan base in the Asia-Pacific region, potentially increasing its global influence and revenue.
What's Next?
The partnership will officially commence on January 25, 2026, with the airing of UFC 324 Prelims on Paramount+ and Network 10. As the launch date approaches, both companies are likely to engage in promotional activities to maximize viewership and subscriptions. The success of this partnership could lead to further collaborations between Paramount and the UFC, potentially expanding to other regions or including additional UFC content. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring subscriber growth and viewer engagement to assess the partnership's impact.
