Paramount+ Becomes Exclusive Broadcaster for Zuffa Boxing
In a groundbreaking development for boxing, Paramount+ has been announced as the exclusive broadcaster for Zuffa Boxing across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America, set to kick off in January 2026. This partnership constitutes a robust alliance with TKO Group Holdings and prominent figures in the fight industry, including UFC President Dana White and Saudi boxing executive Turki Alalshikh. This coalition of influential leaders is poised to significantly alter the global boxing broadcasting landscape.
Inaugural Season and Future Prospects
The inaugural season is planned to feature a dozen live events in 2026, exclusively streamed on Paramount+, with potential for significant events to be aired on CBS and other platforms within the Paramount network. The agreement allows for expansion beyond its first year, ensuring that boxing fans have a continuous stream of high-profile matches, with White assuring competitive bouts and notable stars leading this new phase.
Statements from Key Figures
After years of anticipation, Dana White expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “I’m excited to bring great boxing events to a global audience. There are millions of boxing fans who will now be able to watch competitive fights with up-and-coming boxers as well as the biggest stars in the sport.” He emphasized that Paramount would serve as a thriving hub for both UFC and boxing aficionados.
Turki Alalshikh, noted for revolutionizing the international fight scene through the Riyadh Season boxing series, sees the Zuffa Boxing partnership as a pivotal move. He remarked, “This partnership with Paramount reinforces our vision to redefine the way viewers consume boxing. 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.”
Paramount’s Vision for Live Sports
With a new ownership under Skydance, Paramount has identified live sports as a critical component for subscriber growth. Cindy Holland, Chair of Direct-to-Consumer at Paramount, stated, “Paramount has long been a leader in sports and sports storytelling, and this partnership marks a bold new chapter – not just for us, but for the future of boxing.”
Looking Ahead
Further details regarding the first event will be revealed in the coming months, heightening anticipation among fans regarding which fighters will feature and who will headline the launch in January 2026. Overall, this collaboration heralds a significant transformation in boxing’s broadcast future, as both new and seasoned names in the sport prepare to take to the ring.
Phil Jay, with over 15 years in boxing journalism and as the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News, has covered numerous epic battles and interviewed many world champions, ensuring an insider’s perspective on this monumental deal.
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