Fitch signs deal with RYU

The UFC’s newest sponsor, Respect Your Universe, Inc. (RYU), has signed its first UFC star as it has entered into a deal with welterweight Jon Fitch. The Portland-based brand will sponsor Fitch at UFC 141 in his match with Johny Hendricks.

Via RYU press release:

“We are all very excited to have Jon join the RYU team as our first Mixed Martial Arts athlete,” commented John Wood, President of RYU.  “Jon embodies the spirit and essence of respect, honor, strength and nature; the pillars of RYU. We look forward to working with Jon and his team in the continuing growth of RYU.”

Recently, RYU announced it was UFC’s newest sponsor as UFC 141 would be its first event with the brand’s presence. The sponsorship deals come in lieu of its first full line of clothing this spring, tagged “Built for Athletes, Suited for Style.”

Payout Perspective:

RYU follows in line of most UFC brands that also sponsor its fighters. We shall see how the RYU brand determines how it picks and chooses its fighters. Fitch is a calculated “get” as he could be a top welterweight depending on how he comes back from his shoulder injury. RYU stresses that it uses recycled and organic material in its clothing. It may fit in with Fitch’s lifestyle considering his vegan diet although that may be assuming too much.