Why Paramount is keeping Conor McGregor’s UFC return off CBS
Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the UFC is set to take place on July 11, 2026, against Max Holloway at UFC 329, but it will not be broadcast on CBS, as UFC events remain primarily behind the Paramount+ paywall following a $7.7 billion rights deal with Paramount.
WPN Brief
- What Happened
Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the UFC is set to take place on July 11, 2026, against Max Holloway at UFC 329, but it will not be broadcast on CBS, as UFC events remain primarily behind the Paramount+ paywall following a $7.7 billion rights deal with Paramount.
- Why It Matters
This decision to keep McGregor's return off CBS highlights Paramount's strategy to drive subscriptions to its streaming service, which has become the exclusive platform for UFC events in the U.S., marking a significant shift from the traditional pay-per-view model.
- The Bigger Picture
The UFC's transition to a streaming-first approach reflects broader trends in sports broadcasting, where networks are increasingly prioritizing digital platforms over traditional television, as seen in other sports agreements, such as CBS's extension of its media rights with Serie A through 2026-27.
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