As UFC 257 kicks off the 2021 PPV year, Dana White has issued a warning for those trying to steal it.
During his media time this week for this Saturday night’s UFC Fight Night, he indicated that he would go after those trying to steal the PPV. This infers that the UFC will attempt to sue individuals. In the past, the UFC has sued bars that aired the fight without paying the appropriate license to show the event.
Based on White’s adamant response to those that may steal the company’s PPV, it appears that Zuffa will be more aggressive with its anti-piracy efforts. The company raised its PPV price point $5 to $69.99 for 2021. This, in addition, to the ESPN+ monthly fee of $5.99 or $59.99 annually.
It should be noted that the recent CARES ACT includes protections for Copyright holders which include up to 10 years in prison for those that have an illegal streaming operation defined as a “commercial, for-profit streaming piracy sevice.” Based on the contents of the law, it would not apply to individuals that are trying to pirate a PPV one-time.
Payout Perspective:
The protection of copyrighted material is of paramount importance for owners. One may argue curbing pirates allows for more PPV revenue. But to go after perceived fans of the company is an extension of anti-piracy efforts. Conversely, you might argue that those that pirate the UFC events are not actually fans since they are not actually patrons but steal content. As indicated, its not out of the ordinary for companies to go after pirates. In most instances, copyright holders go after coordinated websites or organizations that have a spot for illegal streams. But it would seem that Zuffa will be more vigilant in going after people this year.
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