The UFC and Televisa Networks have signed an exclusive broadcast agreement to bring UFC programming to 20 Spanish-speaking nations across Latin America.
The list includes Mexico but will not include Brazil, where Globo already has exclusive rights to UFC content.
Televisa will launch a 24-hour network dedicated solely to broadcasting UFC content and live events. The channel, which is set to launch at the end of the year, will also feature original programming.
“The launch of the UFC channel will be a game changer for our sport and its fans throughout Latin America. We are giving millions of fans across the region complete access to all our live events and programming for the first time,” said UFC Chairman Lorenzo Fertitta.
“UFC is the fastest growing sports organisation in history. With the strength of Latin America’s premier media group, Televisa, the UFC channel will become the fastest-growing sports network in television history.”
It is interesting to note how long it has taken the UFC to fully connect with the non-Brazilian Latino market.
There were some signs when Roger Huerta’s popularity as a contender was rising a few years ago. However, with heavyweight champ Cain Velasquez now a recognisable face, the organisation will try to tap the market.
It’s been known to work – WWE’s exclusive Spanish broadcasts have long been a staple of their programming.
Here’s hoping it proves successful for Dana White and the Fertittta brothers.
Tristan Rayner
Editor
At times, ONE (nee One HD) has shown UFC prelims. GO has also had TUF.
Troy Vayanos
Guest
Would love to see UFC broadcast live here in Australia on free to air. We have the fan base here and it's popularity would ensure high ratings.
nickoldschool
Roar Guru
Boxing is huge in Mexico, bigger than in Brazil I would say, and maybe Mexicans fans are just sticking with boxing as they have plethora of champions to support? But yes, dunno if it's feasible or not but a huge outdoors event would be sensational, maybe in the newly restored Maracana stadium in Rio? Tbh, not sure the world is ready for that as it would feel too much like a new version of the roman circus games. Would love it though.
Max Kenney-Herbert
Roar Guru
Id love to see a big outdoor event in Mexico for Cain vs jds 3..as white said its really a surprise that Mexican fans didn't take too it as quickly as their Brazilian counterparts, perhaps due to the existence of several Brazilian champs?