Spike TV Launches Bellator App

Spike TV launched an iPad and iPhone App to be used while watching Bellator MMA.  According to the press release, the App will give users real time fight data as they watch the event.

Via press release:

When the Bellator cage door closes and the gloves touch, the innovative app works in concert with the live Spike broadcast to supply fans with real-time fight data only available through the app.  Developed from the ground up to make watching live fights more immersive, viewers will have the unique ability to track expansive fighter analytics and participate in the on-air broadcast.  As “The 4th Judge,” fans can score rounds with the help of real-time statistics powered by CompuStrike, a service providing data in 26 categories from arm strikes to submission attempts.

“The Bellator app is truly the first of its kind.  It allows our passionate fans to experience the fight as a virtual fourth judge – creating a level of immersion that’s unparalleled in any sport,” said Jon Slusser, Senior Vice President, Sports and Multiplatform Events, Spike TV.  “We see this second-screen as a game-changer.  The results from the app will actually become part of the on-air discussion.  There’s nothing like that in all of sports television.”

“At Bellator, we continually look for new ways to connect with our fans in a more meaningful way,” said Bellator Chairman & CEO Bjorn Rebney. “This innovative app will resonate with our first-adopter audience, who will feel closer to the action than ever before.”

As “The 4th Judge,” viewers will be able to have their opinions known during the live telecast.  The Bellator broadcast team of Jimmy Smith and Sean Wheelock will announce the results of viewers’ polling to see how fan opinion compares to their own as well as the official cageside judges. (“The 4th Judge” voting will not factor in the actual judges’ decisions).

The app features historical statistics for every fighter, pre-fight fan picks, and “Favorite Fight of the Night” polling, which will be sharable via social networks. The Bellator MMA app also gives fans the opportunity to watch exclusive videos, and dig deep into fighter biographies.

Spike TV worked with Omnigon Communications to develop the App.

Payout Perspective:

Multi-tasking is something that most of us do all of the time.  When watching Bellator or UFC, most check tweets to see what others are saying about the fights.  Its a good source of information and social interaction.  Hence, the Bellator App will create a center for fans to go.  The statistics and “The 4th Judge,” feature will create discussion among fans and another way to connect.