Brendan Schaub unimpressed with UFC on ESPN
Former UFC fighter, Brendan Schaub, has risen to popularity since his retirement from MMA and becoming a frequent feature on the Joe Rogan podcast. He has often been critical of Dana White and the UFC's decision making over the years. This continues as he shares his criticisms of the UFC's move to broadcasting provider, ESPN.
''It's all about Dana White now.'' Schaub stated that Dana White seems to be the focal point of the marketing campaigns from ESPN, rather than placing the emphasis on the athletes. As a result of this, there may be a drop off on the popularity of fighters in the UFC. This can lead to fewer sponsorships, smaller paychecks and pay-per-view buys. However, what effect does this have on the UFC? None. The UFC are contractually obliged to ESPN. The meaning of this being that regardless to the performance of each fight night, UFC are relatively at ease with stakeholders due to the five-year $1.5 Billion contract.
These words weren't said without statistics to back them up. Brendan cited a figure of 65,000-70,000 pay-per-view buys for UFC 236, per a respected contact of his. This shows a clear drop off to the average figures that were obtained at FOX.
This insight is an interesting take on the current landscape and potential future of the UFC.
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