Paramount, a Skydance Corporation (NASDAQ: PSKY), and TKO Group Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: TKO) have inked a long-term media rights deal positioning Paramount+ as the exclusive streaming home for Zuffa Boxing across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. The agreement underscores the growing convergence of sports and streaming platforms, as direct-to-consumer services increasingly compete for live-event audiences.
Zuffa Boxing, the newly launched professional boxing promotion, is backed by heavyweight entertainment figures including UFC President Dana White, WWE President Nick Khan, and HE Turki Alalshikh of the Saudi Boxing Federation, alongside Sela’s leadership. The collaboration brings together top-tier sports promotion expertise with ambitious content distribution strategies.
12 Major Cards to Launch in 2026
The partnership kicks off in January 2026, with 12 major boxing events scheduled for streaming on Paramount+. Select bouts may also air on CBS, Paramount’s flagship broadcast network, expanding access beyond the platform’s subscriber base. Paramount plans to increase the number of events in subsequent years, signaling long-term commitment to live sports content.
Dana White, UFC President, emphasized the deal’s global reach: “Millions of boxing fans will now be able to watch competitive fights with up-and-coming boxers as well as the biggest stars in the sport. Paramount will be the home for UFC and boxing fans to watch the greatest fights in combat sports.”
HE Turki Alalshikh highlighted the deal’s potential to redefine boxing consumption: “More fight fans will now have access to watch some of the most exciting boxers around. This is the future for live boxing coverage and will ensure the sport continues to thrive.”
Cindy Holland, Paramount’s Chair of Direct-to-Consumer, added, “By combining TKO and Zuffa Boxing’s world-class production and promotional capabilities with our subscribers’ passion for sports, we are confident we will deliver something truly special to boxing fans throughout the Americas for years to come.”
Strategic Implications for Streaming and Sports Media
This deal reflects a broader industry trend where streaming platforms are aggressively targeting live sports to drive subscriber growth. Competitors like ESPN+, DAZN, and Amazon Prime Video have also been securing exclusive sports rights, but Paramount+ is positioning itself as a premier destination for both combat sports and mainstream entertainment. By integrating marquee boxing events with its existing content portfolio—including CBS Sports, Showtime, and Nickelodeon—Paramount+ strengthens its appeal to diverse audiences while creating new advertising and sponsorship opportunities.
Zuffa Boxing’s first fight schedule and additional event details are expected in the coming months, setting the stage for a high-stakes launch early next year.
