Fight Capital Newsletter #40

I'm back and better than ever!

After coming off of a hiatus on the newsletter and 9 days off of technology and social media, I'm back with the 40th Edition of the Fight Capital Global Newsletter.

In this week’s edition of the Fight Capital Newsletter, I delve into the future of Ultimate Fighting Championship 's broadcast rights as their $1.5 billion deal with ESPN nears its end.

With the NBA securing a $76 billion deal involving multiple broadcasters like Amazon, ESPN, and NBC, Dana White envisions a similar diversified approach for the UFC. This shift could see UFC content spread across platforms such as Disney, YouTube, and Amazon, enhancing accessibility and engagement for fans.

In this week's podcasts, I feature Randy Faehnrich , Head of Content at 3Point0 Labs and co-host of "Verse Us" with Eric Nicksick. Randy discusses the critical role of social media in building an athlete's brand and offers insights from his work with UFC and Francis Ngannou. I also chat with rising UFC star Jarno Errens about his journey from judo to MMA, highlighting his mental preparation and aspirations to surpass other notable fighters in the Netherlands.

Stay connected for more in-depth analyses and the latest trends in the combat sports industry. Your feedback is invaluable, so drop a comment and let's keep the conversation alive!

Sincere Regards,

Ryan Vevon Rapaport

What is the UFC's Future Broadcast Rights Deal?

As the UFC's current $1.5 billion deal with ESPN approaches its end, exciting new possibilities are on the horizon for the organization’s broadcast rights.

The NBA recently secured a $76 billion deal that spans multiple broadcasters, including Amazon, ESPN, and NBC.

This move highlights a growing trend towards diversified media partnerships. Dana White has expressed interest in following a similar path, envisioning UFC content across various platforms to enhance accessibility and engagement.

Potential new partners for the UFC could include major players like Disney, YouTube, and Amazon. These companies reflect the changing landscape of sports media and present significant opportunities for the UFC to expand its reach.

Comparing the NBA's massive deal with the UFC’s current contract reveals the potential for substantial financial growth in upcoming negotiations. Multiple broadcast partners could bring more accessible and diverse UFC content to fans, mirroring the successful model adopted by the NBA.

Strategically, aligning with these trends in sports media could maximize the UFC's reach and revenue, positioning the organization for significant changes in its broadcast strategy. This evolution could lead to greater accessibility and viewer engagement, benefiting fans and the sport overall.

Where do you think the future of UFC broadcasting lies? Share your thoughts in the comments!

For more insights into combat sports business, follow the Fight Capital Newsletter on LinkedIn and Substack.

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This Week's Podcasts

Randy Faehnrich: Head of Content at 3Point0 Labs and Co-Host of Verse Us with Eric Nicksick

Randy Faehnrich is the head of content at 3Point0 Labs and co-host of the Verse Us with Eric Nicksick podcast. They discuss Randy's journey in the combat sports industry, the importance of social media and digital presence for athletes, and the future of sports and entertainment integration. Randy shares insights from his experience working with UFC and Francis Ngannou, emphasizing the power of social media in growing an athlete's brand. They also touch on the upcoming projects at 3Point0 Labs, including collaborations in the film, music, and toy industries.

Follow the Verse Us podcast across social media?@vsuspod

Follow Randy across social media @randallanthony: @randallanthony

• Social media and digital presence are crucial for athletes to grow their brand and gain leverage in the sports industry.
• Athletes should showcase different aspects of their lives and personalities through content creation to connect with fans and attract brand partnerships.
• Sports and entertainment integration is evolving, with athletes being seen as entertainers as much as athletes.
• 3Point0 Labs is expanding its focus beyond combat sports and working on projects in film, music, and toy industries.
• The Verse Us podcast, hosted by Randy Faehnrich and Eric Nicksick , offers behind-the-scenes insights and interviews with athletes and industry professionals.

Jarno Errens: A Rising Star Who Took His Passion to UFC Dreams

Jarno Errens is a rising star in the UFC. Jarno shares his journey from judo to motocross to kickboxing and eventually to MMA. He talks about his motivation to prove himself and his high drive to succeed. Jarno emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and working with a mental coach. He also discusses his goal to surpass other famous fighters in the Netherlands and leverage the UFC's global reach to elevate his career and personal brand. Jarno expresses gratitude to his sponsors and highlights the importance of teamwork.

• Jarno Errens has made a significant impact in the featherweight division of MMA and is known for his resilience and determination.
• He started his athletic journey in judo, then switched to motocross before finding his passion in kickboxing and eventually MMA.
• Jarno emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and working with a mental coach to stay focused and overcome setbacks.
• His goal is to surpass other famous fighters in the Netherlands and leverage the UFC's global reach to elevate his career and personal brand.
• Jarno expresses gratitude to his sponsors and recognizes the importance of teamwork in his success.

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