Analyst Predicts CBS Will Fight for UFC Broadcast Rights—ESPN To Be Knocked Out?

With UFC’s blockbuster media rights deal set to expire in December, a new heavyweight contender may be entering the arena—CBS.

According to industry analyst Rich Greenfield of LightShed Partners, CBS could emerge as a major bidder for UFC broadcast rights following the recent greenlight of Paramount’s merger with Skydance. In a recent Business Insider interview, Greenfield dropped a compelling clue:

“I would be shocked if you didn’t see more sports on CBS. I think they will be a contender for UFC rights.”

That prediction isn’t coming out of left field. Skydance CEO David Ellison—now poised to oversee Paramount’s assets—has been spotted multiple times cageside at UFC events with TKO boss Ari Emanuel and UFC President Dana White. The body language and boardroom whispers say it all: CBS wants in on the fight game.

📺 ESPN’s Reign Could Be Ending

UFC’s current exclusive deal with ESPN concludes this December, and Dana White himself has acknowledged that splitting rights among multiple media partners is “likely.” A final decision is expected by September.

That leaves a rare opportunity in a crowded sports media market—especially with Formula One racing toward Apple TV+. UFC remains one of the last premium live sports properties still available, making it an attractive target for networks looking to make a splash.

And if Skydance’s leadership plans to assert their dominance in the live sports space? UFC could be the crown jewel.

🎥 How We Would Watch Fight Night and PPV

If the UFC shifts its primary broadcast partner from ESPN to CBS, the way fans view fights, especially Pay-Per-View (PPV) events—could change significantly. Currently, ESPN+ holds exclusive U.S. rights to UFC PPVs, but that deal expires in 2025. Should CBS secure the rights, it would likely distribute events through a combination of its streaming platform, Paramount+, and traditional cable or satellite providers. Paramount+ would almost certainly play a major role in delivering PPV content, potentially bundled with subscriptions or other CBS services. 

However, given the continued popularity of cable in some regions, CBS may also maintain access via conventional providers to reach a broader audience. A critical factor will be whether CBS opts for exclusive distribution or allows for shared access with other platforms. Internationally, UFC’s existing broadcast agreements would influence availability outside the U.S. As the competition heats up, the final viewing experience will ultimately depend on how aggressively networks like CBS bid and structure their deals. 

🧠 MainEvent.News | Backstage Take:

This isn’t just about fight night—it’s about broadcast muscle. CBS has the reach, Skydance has the ambition, and UFC has the product. If ESPN’s grip slips, CBS might just be the next octagon overlord. Don’t be surprised if CBS turns a cage match into a ratings war.