As I impatiently await the start of UFC 82: Pride of a Champion, I find that my excitement does not stem solely from the upcoming fights — which should be quality. Two recent bits of news in the mixed-martial-arts world, that have nothing to do with the fighting itself, have me pumped.
First, the CBS Television Network and ProElite Inc. announced a “multi-year agreement.” The fact that this is the UFC, at first, had me a little bummed. But, I soon thought better of this.
Competition breeds excellence — at least that’s the capitalist cry. Overall, the sport of MMA will directly benefit from the added exposure. But, indirectly, something will be brought about by this newfound attention to EliteXC—the UFC’s answer.
The UFC did announce a sponsorship deal with Bud Light. This is not quite as huge, but momentous none-the-less. All the major sports in America have a major beer sponsor. (Mickey’s did not count.)
This should also help with the UFC inking a deal of its own. Well, that and Dana White letting his guard down a little. I could see Fox airing the fights. It seems like a good fit to me. With shows like American Idol and Family Guy, they couldn’t possibly take a pretentious stance towards fighting. Plus, it would help them hang on to the viewers that leave after the Super Bowl.
Here’s hoping us MMA fans the best.
