2013 was the first full year for the WSOF. Even though its last event on NBC Sports Network saw a downturn in ratings, it was announced that it would be on NBC twice in 2014 and more events which could mean bigger things in the coming year.
The ratings saw a high with its August 2013 event and saw its lowest ratings on December 10th.
WSOF 1 – 198,000 viewers (November 2012)
WSOF 2 – 210,000 viewers
WSOF 3 – 201,000 viewers
WSOF 4 – 264,000 viewers
WSOF 5 – 227,000 viewers
WSOF 6 – 161,000 viewers
WSOF 7 – 94,000 viewers
WSOF has hired sports media company IMG to represent the company in seeking to distribute the media rights for the company. It is seeking to hold 8-10 events in the next two years and seeking to hold events internationally. The organization announced the “World Series of Fighting Japan” as it has established a working agreement with Pancrase to co-promote a card in Japan.
In addition, it announced a partnership with Boost Mobile this year which came off to mixed reviews with its debut promotion during the August event.
Despite the mix of ratings, the WSOF is live content for the NBC Sports Network which it needs. If you have tuned in recently, NBC Sports Network has shown the US Olympic Trials for Curling. To me, MMA seems a little more exciting compared to curling. It will be interesting to see how its business strategy of expansion does and if the product catches on in international markets. Its network appearances will be something to look at in terms of how it is promoted and how it will do on the network. NBC Sports Network’s “Fight Night” which has made appearances on the NBC Network on Saturday afternoons has shown good ratings for a boxing card with relatively unknown boxers.
One of the things that the WSOF could do is continue to look for ex-UFC fighters that still can be competitive and put on good fights. Also, Nick Newell. He should be the face of the organization. He is a great fighter and will make a great human interest story. Expect him to fight on NBC when WSOF makes its debut.
Nice catch. They are #3 and fine with it, but seem to have a nice business model which is sustainable.