7/22 EliteXC Conference Call Notes
July 22, 2008
Executive Chairman of ProElite Doug DeLuca spoke with the press this afternoon via conference call. Here is a quick summary of the business-related questions. These are not direct quotes but a paraphrasing of his words. More to come once we get a full transcript:
On the Gate: He said that the Stockton Arena seats 10,000, would be configured for 7500-8000, and as of last week-end they had sold a little over half of the stadium. He expected a sell out by fight time on Sat. night.
On the Expected Ratings Number: They are managing expectations but are confident in their product. Not expecting as big numbers as the first show on CBS but expect good numbers. “The first Card did well because we grabbed their attention and them gave them great fights, intend to do that again.” He did not give a definitive number for this card like they did with the May card (which they aimed for and got a 3.0 on).
On the FSN deal that was reported first here at MMAPayout.com: He is friends with Mr Greenburg…he’s not prepared to talk about anything in detail at this point but stated we should be seeing something soon.
Asked about the PPV model as it relates to their Broadcast deal: Doug stated that the network deal was definitely a driver to both their Showtime broadcasts and eventually to PPV. They want to use the network shows to build stars, build interest, tell stories, and that will drive folks to buy the PPV. Spoke of a possible early 09 PPV show.
On Possible Co-promotions: Always in talks with others in the industry about co-promoting (save one particular company). They have on more card left on the Strikeforce Co-promo deal, have talked about with Dream about a possible Co-Promo show in Japan.
