Meta has entered a multi-year partnership with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), becoming its ‘Official Fan Technology Partner.’ This collaboration promises to integrate mixed martial arts events more deeply into Meta’s platforms, including Quest.
UFC is eager to use Meta’s advanced technology to connect with its massive global fan base. This partnership will utilize Meta’s AI, Meta Glasses, Meta Quest, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads to revolutionize fan interaction.
Moreover, Meta has been named the UFC’s ‘Official AI Glasses Partner.’ Both parties plan to explore innovative ways to use these groundbreaking glasses at UFC events.
Dana White, President and CEO of UFC, expressed his excitement, stating, “Over the years, we’ve had some incredible partners who have helped us expand the sport. Mark and his team at Meta are poised to amaze UFC fans. With Meta’s top tech minds, fan engagement is set to skyrocket. We’ve started working on a revolutionary fighter rankings system with them, which I’ll unveil soon. The coming years are going to be transformative for our fans.”
The collaboration seems fitting, considering Meta’s founder, Mark Zuckerberg, is an avid supporter of the sport. He’s not only a spectator but has also participated in Jiu Jitsu competitions.
Zuckerberg shared, “I have a deep passion for this sport, and I’m excited to explore new ways for fans to engage and immerse themselves.”
White has joined Meta’s board of directors, alongside notable figures such as John Elkann from Exor and tech investor Charlie Songhurst.
While specifics about the integration with Quest are sparse, it’s evident that UFC assets will feature prominently across various events. Expect to see brand placements in the Octagon, special broadcasts, and imaginative fan experiences at arenas.
The association also extends to the social platform Threads, where you’ll find exclusive UFC content. This alliance isn’t entirely new; in 2022, UFC and Meta worked together to stream 180-degree Fight Pass events on Horizon Worlds and the Xtadium app. Now, this expanded collaboration hints at even broader licensing opportunities, potentially boosting the visibility of UFC matches on Meta’s platforms.
Stay tuned, as more details about this exciting partnership will be unveiled soon.