Meta and UFC Strengthen Partnership with New Deal Spanning All Platforms, Including Quest and Smart Glasses

Meta has entered a groundbreaking multi-year agreement with the UFC, securing the title of ‘Official Fan Technology Partner.’ This exciting collaboration hints at bringing the thrilling action of UFC’s mixed martial arts directly to Meta’s platforms, especially for Quest users.

UFC enthusiasts are in for a treat as the organization plans to harness Meta’s cutting-edge technology to enhance how fans around the globe engage with the sport. This innovation push includes leveraging Meta’s powerful suite of products including Meta AI, Meta Glasses, Meta Quest, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads.

Furthermore, Meta will take on the role of the UFC’s ‘Official AI Glasses Partner.’ This partnership is set to explore creative uses for Meta’s AI glasses, adding an exciting layer to events that could redefine how we experience live sports.

Dana White, the President and CEO of UFC, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration. "Over the years, I’ve teamed up with some fantastic partners who’ve helped elevate our sport, but the innovative steps Mark and the Meta team are taking will truly awe UFC fans," he said. "With the best minds in tech by our side, fan engagement is about to reach new heights. We’re already brainstorming with Meta on fresh initiatives like a revamped fighter ranking system, which I’ll share soon. The coming years promise to be a game-changer for our sport’s fanbase."

This partnership seems to be a natural progression, given that Mark Zuckerberg, the mastermind behind Meta, is an avid MMA enthusiast himself. He has even participated in several Jiu Jitsu competitions, which underscores his genuine interest in the sport. "This sport has a special place in my heart, and I’m excited to team up with UFC to deliver new and immersive experiences for fans," remarked Zuckerberg.

Adding another layer to the collaboration, White has joined Meta’s board of directors earlier this year. He’s joined by notable figures like John Elkann from Exor and tech investor Charlie Songhurst, signaling a powerful alliance.

Although specific features for Quest remain under wraps, there’s a lot to look forward to. Meta has hinted at integrating UFC assets into various activations, with brand presence in every Pay-Per-View and Fight Night. Fans can expect to see innovative branding in the iconic Octagon, additional broadcast elements, and immersive arena experiences. Moreover, exclusive UFC content is lined up for Meta’s social platform Threads.

Back in 2022, the UFC teamed up with Meta to introduce 180-degree Fight Pass livestreams to Horizon Worlds, a social VR space on Quest, along with the Xtadium app. With the latest partnership, there’s potential for broader licensing opportunities on Quest, which could boost the visibility of UFC matches like never before.

As this collaboration unfolds, more exciting details about the partnership are anticipated to be revealed soon. Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying journey into the future of sports engagement.