With the UFC/WEC merger, Versus affirmed its commitment to MMA with a pre and post-fight show for Thursday’s WEC event. The success of the coverage will depend if the UFC continues with these shows.
Versus, the exclusive home for the WEC, featured WEC live events and WEC Wreckage. Although things will change in 2011, Versus will air four UFC cards next year.
The additional coverage rivals that of other sports as it features pre-fight and post-fight analysis.
Via Cagewriter:
“The Daily Line,” a nightly show covering all sports, was canceled because the show never really gained traction with viewers. The hope is that the pre- and post-show will entice MMA viewers with a mix of interviews, highlights and fight discussions. UFC president Dana White and heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez are scheduled to appear on Thursday’s pre-show. The success of Thursday’s show will determine the future of the show.
“The Daily Line” used to be the unofficial wrap-up for WEC events but is no longer after being cancelled. MMA Fighting’s Ariel Helwani, who appeared on “The Daily Line”, will host the WEC pre/post-fight coverage with Molly Qerim.
Payout Perspective:
Thursday’s pre and post fight coverage is a good measure as to how Versus will market its four UFC shows. The hope is that viewers will turn in to both as a way to get ready for the fights, watch the event and then listen to the winners, losers and analysis.
Although ESPN’s MMA Live already provides post-fight analysis for UFC PPVs, Versus could provide original content in its pre-fight and post-fight shows for December’s WEC event as well as the UFC events on Versus. I think it’s a good move by Versus to maintain its commitment to the UFC and remain an active partner. For its part, the UFC is helping this coverage succeed with appearances by White, Velasquez, Anthony Pettis and Benson Henderson. Also the anticipated backstage access it will have at the event. With the expanded roster, Versus can remain a major ally for the UFC.
I wouldn’t be shocked if Vs and Zuffa don’t use this show as any sort of gauge ratings wise since it’s going aginst the NFL tonight. Honestly, between the NFL tonight and the Paqman/Margarito fight Saturday, I think Zuffa is going to get some bad ratings for these two shows, especially since 122 doesn’t have a ratings draw on it
Yea your right, but it just being UFC will certainly draw its hardcore followers. Not to mention it is FREE. The NFL is for a particular crowd, i dont think it will take away from the hardcore fans, just knowing wec will be the UFC, has me watching it with a bit more closely!
Rick,
I agree, it will get the hardcore fans, but to have really good ratings for an MMA event I think you need casual fans flipping and staying, I just think Zuffa is going to have difficulty with that against the NFL and a major boxing event.