UFC year in review: The good, the bad and the ugly | RNZ News
: While 2025 was criticized for a "dearth of star power," 2026 has rebounded with massive bouts like Holloway vs. Oliveira 2 and the upcoming Chimaev vs. Strickland title fight. UFC year in review: The good, the bad
The biggest change this year is the landmark , which effectively ended the traditional pay-per-view (PPV) model in the U.S.. The biggest change this year is the landmark
: The shift has brought a heavier reliance on advertisements , including split-screen ads during live action. Some users have reported early technical "hiccups" with audio and feed stability during newer broadcasts. Fighter Roster and Matchmaking Fighter Roster and Matchmaking : Fans now access
: Fans now access all 13 marquee numbered events and 30 Fight Nights for a standard subscription fee, making the sport significantly more affordable . The initial streams, including UFC 324 , have been praised for high video quality and stability compared to previous platforms.
The currently stands as the world's premier mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion , though its reception in 2026 is a mix of high-stakes excitement and growing pains from a massive broadcasting shift. The Current Viewing Experience (2026)
The UFC remains the gold standard for talent, though critics argue the depth can vary.