Get ready for a knockout announcement that’s set to shake up the sports world! Paramount and UFC are doubling down on their partnership, bringing fans not just one, but two thrilling fight series that promise to uncover the next generation of MMA superstars. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this isn’t just about more fights—it’s about how these series are reshaping the future of combat sports entertainment. Let’s dive in.
At the heart of this expansion are two powerhouse shows: Dana White’s Contender Series and The Ultimate Fighter. Both are set to return with fresh seasons, giving aspiring fighters a shot at UFC glory. The UFC showcase at CCXP, hosted by the charismatic André Azevedo, gave fans a taste of what’s to come. Brazilian legend and two-time UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira joined forces with rising stars from The Fighting Nerds—Bruna Basil, Caio Borralho, Carlos Prates, and Jean Silva—to celebrate the partnership and hype up the crowd. It was a moment that reminded everyone why MMA is more than a sport—it’s a global phenomenon.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While fans are thrilled about the new seasons, some are questioning whether these series are truly the best pathway to UFC stardom, or if they’re just glorified talent shows. After all, not every fighter who shines on screen translates their success to the octagon. What do you think? Let’s debate this in the comments!
This latest move builds on the groundbreaking seven-year media rights deal between UFC and Paramount, announced in August, which made Paramount+ the exclusive home of UFC events in the U.S. And it doesn’t stop there—in October, the partnership expanded to include Latin America and Australia, starting in 2026. For fans Down Under, this means access to preliminary fights for all marquee numbered events and all 30 UFC Fight Night events, included with their Paramount+ subscription at no extra cost. Talk about a game-changer!
Dana White’s Contender Series, the brainchild of UFC CEO Dana White, has been a launching pad for fighters like Sean O’Malley, Jamahal Hill, and Caio Borralho since its debut in 2017. These aren’t just names—they’re now household figures in the MMA world, proving that the series is more than just a show; it’s a career accelerator. Meanwhile, The Ultimate Fighter has been the ultimate reality TV experience, introducing fans to future champions like Julianna Peña, Kamaru Usman, and Rose Namajunas. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s a testament to the grit and determination of these athletes.
The partnership kicks off in style on January 24, 2026, with UFC 324 airing live on Paramount+. This is just the first of 13 marquee events scheduled for the year, all included with a Paramount+ subscription. And yes, you read that right—no extra fees for subscribers. It’s a bold move by Paramount, which is clearly betting big on UFC to drive its streaming service’s growth.
And this is the part most people miss: By integrating these fight series into its platform, Paramount isn’t just adding content—it’s positioning itself as the go-to destination for sports fans worldwide. With a diverse lineup that includes blockbuster movies, hit TV shows, and now one of the most dynamic sports franchises on the planet, Paramount+ is playing the long game. But will it pay off? Only time will tell.
As the UFC and Paramount partnership ramps up, one thing is clear: this is a win for fans, fighters, and the future of sports entertainment. But we want to hear from you—are these series the future of fighter discovery, or is there a better way? Drop your thoughts below and let’s keep the conversation going!
