UFC Gets Extra Time From ABC For Second Network Broadcast

UFC will return to network television this afternoon with a huge fight card.
With some big names set to fight and a very compelling main event, ABC was willing to give Dana White’s promotion a little extra time. Rather than the normal slate of four fights the company used to get on Fox, there will be six bouts on today’s Fight Night event.

The UBS Arena on Long Island will be nearly sold out for the show. In the main event, #2 ranked Brian Ortega will take on #3 Yair Rodriguez. The winner could be in line for a shot at Alexander Volkanovski’s title.

Because the show isn’t in prime time, ABC gave UFC room for the lengthier card. There is no pay-per-view attached like last time when only the preliminary bouts were broadcast on the network. Fans will see the whole show on free, over-the-air television.

“Yeah, afternoon show. They wouldn’t put them in prime time, although they were in prime time last week, the pay-per-view week, so two weeks ago… [It’s the main show on ABC] from 3… I think it’s 3 to 6, maybe? They’re going to six matches on the pay-per-view… I mean on ABC, you know. Usually, when they were on Fox in the past, it was four. So, they’re going to give them more time because it’s not prime time.

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You know, it’s the biggest gate for a non-pay-per-view in the history of UFC. Over $2 million. You know, UBS Arena pretty much, they announced a sellout. I think there’s like 500 tickets left or something. It’s not much.”

Alex Volkanovski is recovering from surgery after suffering a broken thumb in his fight against Max Holloway at UFC 276. He is expected to miss about 12 weeks of action. That could line up perfectly for the winner of today’s exciting main event. ABC is hoping that intrigue can bring in a very nice rating for today’s show.

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Transcription by Thirsty for News