Paramount+ Raising Prices Due To UFC; "Really Significant Value," CEO David Ellison Says - Deadline

Paramount+ to Offer Exclusive UFC Bouts with No Extra Charge

In a move aimed at boosting subscriber numbers and increasing revenue, Paramount has announced that it will be adding UFC bouts to its streaming platform, Paramount+. The company has confirmed that the exclusive bouts will be available to subscribers at no extra cost.

Background

Paramount, led by CEO David Ellison, has been looking to expand its content offerings in a bid to stay competitive with other streaming services. The addition of UFC bouts is seen as a significant move in this regard, providing a unique selling point for the platform.

The Reason Behind the Move

According to Paramount, the inclusion of UFC bouts largely justifies the price hikes that are set to take effect on the service in early 2026. Ellison explained that the partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) will provide subscribers with access to exclusive content without requiring any additional fees.

"I believe this is a game-changer for Paramount+," said Ellison. "The UFC fights will be an incredible addition to our platform, and we're confident that they will drive engagement and attract new subscribers."

What This Means for Subscribers

For Paramount+ subscribers, the inclusion of UFC bouts means that they will have access to high-quality, live-action content without having to pay extra. The move is seen as a positive step forward for the platform, which has faced criticism in recent times over its pricing strategy.

"It's a win-win situation," said an industry insider. "Subscribers get access to exclusive UFC bouts, and Paramount gets to increase revenue through the sale of advertising."

How This Will Impact the Industry

The addition of UFC bouts to Paramount+ is likely to have a ripple effect throughout the entertainment industry. Other streaming services are expected to take note of the move and consider their own partnerships with sports organizations.

"This sets a precedent for other streaming services," said a market analyst. "If Paramount can offer high-quality content without requiring extra fees, it could change the way that the industry operates."

The Future of Sports Streaming

The inclusion of UFC bouts on Paramount+ is part of a growing trend in sports streaming. Other platforms such as DAZN and ESPN+ have already established themselves as major players in the space.

"Sports streaming is becoming increasingly popular," said an expert. "We're seeing more and more platforms competing for subscribers, and it's creating a crowded market."

What's Next for Paramount+

While the addition of UFC bouts is a significant move, it's just one part of a larger strategy to revamp Paramount+. The company has announced plans to expand its content offerings, including new original series and movies.

"We're committed to providing our subscribers with the best possible viewing experience," said Ellison. "We're working hard to create new and exciting content that will keep our subscribers engaged."

Conclusion

The addition of UFC bouts to Paramount+ is a significant move that is likely to have a positive impact on the platform's subscriber numbers and revenue. By offering exclusive content at no extra cost, Paramount is driving engagement and attracting new subscribers.

As the streaming market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how other platforms respond to this development. One thing is clear: Paramount+ has taken a bold step forward in its quest to establish itself as a major player in the world of sports streaming.

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