Meta has recently inked a significant agreement with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), establishing itself as the ‘Official Fan Technology Partner’ for the organization. This partnership is set to blend UFC’s mixed martial arts events more seamlessly into Meta’s platforms, such as Quest.
The UFC is eager to utilize Meta’s technology to enhance interaction and create a fresh experience for its vast global audience. This collaboration will involve various Meta services like Meta AI, Meta Glasses, Meta Quest, and popular platforms like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads.
Meta will also serve as the UFC’s ‘Official AI Glasses Partner,’ collaborating to integrate these innovative glasses into UFC events in creative and engaging ways.
“Over the years, I’ve had several partners that contributed to the sport’s growth, but what Mark and his team at Meta are set to do is extraordinary,” stated UFC President and CEO Dana White. “With Meta’s expertise, we’re going to elevate fan interaction. We’ve already started reimagining a fighter rankings system with Meta’s help, which I’m excited to unveil soon. The coming years will change the game for fans.”
Interestingly, Mark Zuckerberg, Meta’s founder, and CEO, has grown fond of UFC, even participating in Jiu Jitsu competitions himself. “I’m thrilled to collaborate with the UFC to offer fans new, exciting ways to experience the sport,” Zuckerberg shared.
Additionally, Dana White has taken a seat on Meta’s board of directors alongside notable figures like John Elkann of Exor and tech investor Charlie Songhurst.
As for what’s in store for Quest, specific details remain sparse. However, Meta has hinted at integrating UFC assets with noticeable activations during Pay-Per-View and Fight Night events. Expect to see brand placements inside the Octagon, unique broadcast features, and inventive fan experiences at venues.
Moreover, Meta’s social platform Threads is on deck to introduce exclusive original content related to UFC, enhancing how fans connect with the sport.
This partnership initially began in 2022 when UFC teamed up with Meta to bring 180-degree Fight Pass live streams to Horizon Worlds and the Xtadium app. This new deal represents a potential expansion of UFC content licensing across Quest, aiming for broader exposure.
Stay tuned for more announcements as the companies promise to reveal further details of this exciting venture soon.
