The “Big Four” major sports leagues in the United States are traditionally the MLB, NBA, NFL, and NHL. However, Endeavor president Mark Shapiro argues that the UFC has replaced the NHL in this hierarchy, claiming the UFC is now one of the top four major sports leagues. Just how big is the UFC compared to other sports, and is Shapiro’s claim valid?
The UFC’s Rise and its Claim to “Big Four” Status
Shapiro bases his argument on the UFC’s television ratings on ESPN and ESPN2, which he says “dwarf” those of the NHL, even including playoff games. He points out that regular weekly Fight Nights on ESPN achieve double-digit ratings, with demographics significantly higher than the NHL. While Shapiro’s position is understandably biased, as Endeavor owns both the UFC and WWE, his argument merits examination.
Comparing the UFC to Established Major Leagues
The NFL undeniably reigns supreme as the most popular sports league in the US, enjoying unparalleled viewership and revenue. College football holds a strong second position, although Shapiro’s focus on “major” leagues seemingly excludes collegiate sports. This leaves the NBA, MLB, and the contender, the UFC, vying for the remaining two spots.
While the NBA boasts higher average ratings for nationally televised games and greater overall league value, MLB thrives locally through its numerous regional sports networks. MLB also generates higher annual revenue, averaging $11.5 billion compared to the NBA’s $10 billion. This suggests a slight edge for MLB over the NBA in overall popularity.
The UFC vs. the NHL: A Battle for the Fourth Spot
The core of Shapiro’s argument lies in the UFC’s stronger television performance and its ability to drive ESPN+ subscriptions. While acknowledging the inherent difference between comparing weekly UFC fights to a season of NHL games, the UFC’s cultural relevance and digital presence are undeniable. UFC events consistently trend on Google and social media, indicating a significant and engaged audience.
Financially, the NHL currently holds a considerable lead in annual revenue, generating $5.93 billion compared to the UFC’s $1.3 billion. However, Shapiro contends that the UFC is under-monetized and poised for significant growth, citing a threefold increase in sponsorship sales. The upcoming expiration of ESPN’s exclusive UFC broadcasting rights in 2025 could further escalate the UFC’s value as streaming giants like Amazon, Peacock, and Apple compete for broadcasting rights.
The UFC’s appeal to a broader audience, particularly within “Red America,” and its strategic partnerships with major corporations like Bud Light further solidify its growing influence. These factors indicate a potential for rapid growth and increased revenue in the coming years.
Conclusion: Is the UFC a “Big Four” Sport?
While the NHL currently surpasses the UFC in annual revenue, the UFC’s superior television ratings, cultural relevance, digital engagement, and potential for future growth present a compelling argument for its inclusion in the “Big Four.” Considering these factors, alongside the anticipated bidding war for broadcasting rights, the UFC’s claim to a top-tier position in the sports landscape appears increasingly legitimate. The UFC may not have overtaken the NHL in every metric yet, but its trajectory suggests it’s on a path to potentially surpass hockey in influence and financial success.
