Looking ahead to the upcoming year and a significant new broadcast agreement, the UFC is adjusting its strategy, moving away from relying heavily on its APEX facility for events.
During a recent financial briefing with investors, a TKO Group Holdings executive outlined the UFC’s intentions to increase its presence in international locations starting in 2025. This shift is driven by the understanding that while international events generate higher revenues, they also come with different profit margins compared to the more cost-effective events held at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas.
The UFC initially began utilizing the APEX facility during the global pandemic as a safe way to continue hosting fights. Even after the pandemic subsided, APEX events remained attractive due to the significantly lower production costs associated with using their in-house venue.
It was mentioned that several UFC events previously held at the APEX are slated to be moved to international locations in 2025, though specific locations were not disclosed.
The UFC has already been actively expanding its international footprint, including a deal with Saudi Arabia to host multiple events. This international expansion is expected to continue.
While UFC Fight Night events have typically been held at the APEX, the organization is now planning to broaden its horizons with more international events in the future.
The full schedule of UFC events is still being developed, but as the company prepares for a new broadcast rights agreement, there is potential for an overall increase in the number of events in the coming years.
