The Athletic reports that UFC 253 this past Saturday drew 700,000 worldwide buys on ESPN+. The main event featured Israel Adesanya as he took on Paulo Costa. The 700K buys ties it with UFC 249 this past May as Justin Gaethje fought Tony Ferguson in the main event. UFC 251 is this year’s reported high […]
UFC
Report: ESPN did not pressure the UFC to return to action
The Sports Business Journal reports that ESPN did not pressure the UFC in a return back to the Octagon during the pandemic. In an interview with the UFC’s COO Lawrence Epstein, he indicated that despite the lack of programming, the network did not attempt to apply pressure on them. The article does not inquire as […]
White, Zuffa fire back at plaintiff in Reply Brief
UFC 253 Prelims on ESPN2 drew 523,000 viewers
The UFC 253 Prelims on ESPN2 drew 523,000 viewers Saturday according to Nielsen via ShowBuzz Daily. The 3 hour telecast also drew 229,000 in A18-49 demo. It was the lowest output for the Prelims this year although the first time on ESPN2. The fights took place on ESPN2 due to College Football which aired on […]
Champs grab UFC 253 bonuses
Israel Adesanya and Jan Blachowicz drew Performance of the Night bonuses as each left the evening with gold. Adesanya defended his welterweight crown while Blachowicz won the light heavyweight strap. The Polish fighter won the vacant light heavyweight title with he stopped Dominick Reyes in the second round of their 5 round fight. He is […]