Dana White, the prominent head of the UFC, has publicly shared his excitement following the announcement of a groundbreaking new media deal for Zuffa Boxing.
Earlier this year, TKO Holdings initiated a new boxing promotion, provisionally named TKO Boxing, with White and Turki Alalshikh leading the charge. This new venture swiftly made its mark by hosting its inaugural event just weeks ago, which featured the monumental undisputed super middleweight title clash between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford—hailed as one of the century`s most significant boxing matches. Building on this momentum, TKO`s boxing enterprise has now secured a new broadcasting home, mirroring the successful path forged by the UFC.
Zuffa Boxing Secures Broadcasting Deal with Paramount
This development comes shortly after the UFC announced in early August that it would conclude its long-standing broadcast partnership with ESPN in the United States, transitioning to a massive $7.7 billion agreement with Paramount. Now, mere weeks after its first boxing event, Zuffa Boxing—a new professional boxing promotion formed by TKO and the leading entertainment conglomerate Sela, under the leadership of White and Alalshikh—has also finalized an exclusive media rights agreement with Paramount.
Commencing in January 2026, Paramount will exclusively distribute a comprehensive schedule of Zuffa Boxing events. The initial plan includes 12 events, with intentions to expand this number in subsequent years. These events will be accessible primarily through Paramount+, with the possibility of select broadcasts being simulcast on CBS, aligning with the UFC’s new broadcasting model.
“I’m excited to bring great boxing events to a global audience,” White stated in a press release. “Millions of boxing fans will now have access to competitive fights featuring both rising talents and established stars. Paramount will serve as the ultimate destination for UFC and boxing enthusiasts to witness the premier combat sports events.”
Turki Alalshikh Comments on Landmark Deal
Turki Alalshikh, widely acknowledged for revitalizing boxing by orchestrating some of the sport`s most anticipated fights in recent years, also shared his perspective on the partnership.
“This partnership with Paramount reinforces our vision to redefine how viewers experience boxing,” Alalshikh commented. “More fans will now have the opportunity to watch some of the sport`s most thrilling boxers. We’ve seen undeniable demand, and this represents the future of live boxing coverage, ensuring the sport’s continued growth and success.”
