Get ready for a game-changer in the world of UFC! The upcoming UFC 324 is set to revolutionize the sport's broadcast schedule. Damon Martin, a combat sports journalist since 2003, has revealed that the UFC's partnership with Paramount will bring a significant shift in start times for major events.
The UFC 324, taking place at the iconic T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, will kick off at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, an hour earlier than the usual pay-per-view start times. But here's where it gets controversial... this change is expected to become the new norm for all major numbered UFC events!
This isn't the first time the UFC has experimented with earlier start times, but it seems this time it's here to stay. With the UFC's move to Paramount+, all events will now fall under the standard subscription price, marking a departure from the traditional pay-per-view model.
And this is the part most people miss... while all UFC events will be on Paramount+, some cards might also find their way to CBS. However, this isn't expected for the UFC 324 launch in January.
The UFC's partnership with ESPN comes to an end with the December 13th event at the UFC APEX, and the next scheduled event, UFC 324, is set for January 24th. Just a week later, UFC 325 will take place in Australia, but the full UFC schedule for 2025, including the standard Fight Night events, is yet to be finalized.
UFC 324 promises an exciting interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, with Kayla Harrison defending her bantamweight title against Amanda Nunes in the co-main event. At UFC 325, featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski will return to the octagon to face Diego Lopes in a highly anticipated rematch.
So, what do you think about this permanent change in start times? Is it a welcome move or a potential disruption to the UFC viewing experience? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this exciting development!
