As part of VERSUS’ renewal deal, the network will air seven live WEC fights and two live UFC events in 2010, marking the first time that live UFC events will air on a national sports cable network. Also included in the renewal deal are digital media rights, giving VERSUS.com the ability to air one non-televised fight and behind-the-scenes footage from each live WEC Event. Details regarding when the first live UFC event will air on the network will be announced in the near future.
Versus To Broadcast Two Live UFC Events In 2010
- From Versus.com (emphasis mine)
A short list of things that jump out at me given this announcement:
- Haven’t we heard prior to this that the UFC could never work with ESPN due to exclusive cable broadcasting rights for UFC being held by Spike TV? Did Spike decide to allow this move? And if so do they get rebroadcast rights of the Versus fights for Spike shows like UFC Unleashed?
- The feud between Comcast and DirecTV resulting in Versus being pulled from DTV continues to deeply hurt MMA fans who now not only will miss out on the WEC but also on live UFC events.
- The move should provide a boost to the WEC as the network can use the UFC shows to build network legitimacy as well as provide a platform to really push the WEC fighters and events.
- Is this the first step toward attempting to move the UFC onto network television? With Comcast (owners of Versus) having purchased NBC this could be a good faith move by the promotion to attempt to move toward a network.
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