Spike TV and Ultimate Fighting Championship announced a new deal Wednesday that will make the cable network UFC’s official home through 2008.
“We are thrilled to continue our relationship with the hottest brand in sports, The UFC,” said Spike’s Doug Herzog. “The deal is a testament to the incredible passion and foresight that Dana White brings to the sport of mixed martial arts.”
According to a press release issued by the network, ninety five million viewers saw at least one minute of UFC programming in 2005.
The latest phase in UFC’s impact on the network will begin April 6, when Spike TV airs another “Ultimate Fight Night” and the season premiere of “The Ultimate Fighter 3.” The new deal provides for the following future programming:
_ Seasons five through seven of “The Ultimate Fighter.” Season four, which was already confirmed, will air this year, while seasons five and six will air in 2007 and seven will air in 2008.
_ Ten “Ultimate Fight Night” cards: two additional lineups in 2006, four in 2007 and four in 2008.
_ Twenty six new “UFC Unleashed” highlight shows: thirteen to air in 2007 and thirteen to air in 2008.
