WBD could become a landing place for the UFC, if ESPN fails to close a deal within its exclusive window of negotiating with the world’s leading fight company.
White gave an interview to Sports Business Journal following this weekend’s UFC 303. The topic of UFC’s upcoming media rights was brought up. When asked specifically if WBD is interested in UFC White replied, “I think everyone’s kicking the tires and are interested in making bids.”
White and other TKO executives had previously stated that both sides had already talked. Mark Shapiro, TKO’s Mark Shapiro, has stated that they are “flexible” in these negotiations and even suggested that ESPN may be willing to buy their pay-per view rights outright to charge more for the standalone streaming service.
White said that although UFC and ESPN have “had some headbutting” over the course of the relationship, both sides are very happy with the way the relationship has progressed.
“We’ll have to see how this plays out,” said the man.
White worked with WBD before for the launch of White’s first Power Slap series, which lasted only one season on TBS.
WBD is expected to lose its long-standing NBA TV rights package. This could potentially open up a significant budget for a new bid. They are currently in talks with AEW to renew their TV rights. This exclusive negotiating window is set to expire soon as the current agreement between the two sides is expected to end by the end of 2024.
Dana White believes WBD could bid for UFC TV rights in todays Wrestling news, Chatalong Chatbox, Results will be Hidden inside a spoiler Button so you will not bet spoiled about direct results.
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