TKO CEO Ari Emanuel & COO Mark Shapiro on $1.1B UFC Deal with Paramount

Landmark UFC Deal with Paramount

• 🤝 TKO has finalized a 7-year agreement with Paramount, valued at $1.1 billion per year, making Paramount Plus the exclusive US home for UFC starting in 2026.
• ⚡ The deal came together rapidly, finalized within 48 hours after other bidders explored various content configurations.
• 💰 The agreement represents a significant increase, doubling the value of the previous deal.

Strategic Platform and Reach

• 🎯 While monetization was key, TKO prioritized finding the right home for future brand growth.
• 📺 Paramount Plus will be the exclusive platform, but CBS will simulcast many fights, including all numbered events (formerly pay-per-view), leveraging the "Tiffany Network" for broad reach.
• 🚀 The strategy mirrors successful models like driving viewership to Paramount Plus through content, similar to deals for "South Park."

Evolution of Content Distribution

• 💡 TKO aims to move away from the antiquated pay-per-view model, which acts as a barrier for fans.
• 📈 The new deal offers a more accessible model, with an ad-supported Paramount Plus subscription costing $8 per month, including all UFC content.
• 🌍 TKO has a history of successfully migrating its fan base across different platforms, from Spike to Fox and ESPN, demonstrating their ability to adapt to streaming and market shifts.

Future of Sports Media

• 🎤 The deal signifies a shift towards streaming sports and integrated media strategies, aligning with TKO's vision.
• 🎮 Beyond UFC, TKO also recently finalized a deal with WWE and is exploring opportunities in boxing and bull riding (PBR) to round out their content offerings.
• 📊 The focus is on creating a unified platform with more personalization, customization, and integration of elements like sports betting.