The first ever UFC event took place on November 12, 1993. It was named UFC 1. Every subsequent event has been numbered.
These key bouts are usually broadcast exclusively via pay-per-view, with a few exceptions. Sports television network ESPN also hosts numbered UFC events.
The numbered events usually feature several fights – up to a dozen - both on the main card and the preliminary card. There will be a range of weights, as well as both men’s and women’s fights.
Numbered events award bonus prizes for both the Fight of the Night and the Performance of the Night. Total payouts are typically in the millions.
UFC Fight Nights are smaller events aired on cable television. Easier to access and free to watch, these fights are introductions to the world of mixed martial arts but can feature some fabulous bouts.
Although the UFC dominates the world of mixed martial arts, there are contenders in the ranks.
CageSport, BELLATOR, Empire Fight, Art of War and the Honor Fighting Championship are all jostling for position in this crowded and popular sport.
UFC PAY-PER-VIEW EVENTS
Both boxing and mixed martial arts have adopted the pay-per-view business model. The UFC has led the way, generating much of its income via pay-per-view revenue.
UFC 229: The lightweight championship clash between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor still holds the record as the biggest MMA event in history, with a staggering 2.4 million buys worth a cool $180 million.
You can find betting action on the fight – whatever the broadcast medium. Live or via pay-per-view, you can bet on what fighter you think has got what it takes to win the bout.
UFC FIGHT NIGHT
UFC fighters are paid by the fight. Not surprisingly, the more well known the fighter, the bigger the purse.
Headliners will earn as much as $500,000 to $1 million per fight. There are also bonuses for Fight of the Night and Performance of the Night. The UFC is contractually obliged to offer every fighter at least three fights a year.
Contractual conflicts between the UFC and fighters are always close at hand. The bottom line - the bigger the fighter, the more contractual clout he or she wields. You can rest assured business triumphs and they usually work it out.
THER MAJOR MMA EVENTS
The UFC is the undefeated champion of mixed martial arts, holding the trophy since 1993.
However, there are contenders waiting patiently on the sidelines. BELLATOR is probably its biggest challenger, with broadcast deals around the world.
StrikeForce, Zuffa, ONE Championship, Cage Warriors, Glory, the Professional Fighters League, World Extreme Cagefighting, the International Mixed Martial Arts, Maximum Fighting Championship and International Fight league are just a few of the many rival MMA organisations challenging for their slice of the lucrative action.
.svg "leovegas")
.svg "Boylesports")
