UFC enhances digital currency focus with Crypto.com expansion

UFC has confirmed an enhanced focus on growing its blockchain presence, linking with Crypto.com for the expansion of the pair’s long-term partnership that now includes an exclusive line of UFC NFTs.

The collaboration will see Crypto.com offering a wide variety of UFC digital collectibles that will include unique fighter collections, fight night artwork, event posters, championship belts, avatars, artist collaborations, mystery boxes, athlete profiles, and more.

“Crypto.com is an amazing partner and it speaks volumes about their ingenuity, foresight, and marketplace leadership that we are already expanding our relationship after only a few months,” said UFC Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Products Tracey Bleczinski.  “NFTs are an exciting expansion of UFC’s strong collectible marketplace and an innovative and authentic way for our passionate fans to stay connected to the UFC brand.”

The new arrangement expands the scope of the historic sponsorship partnership reached earlier this year that provides massive exposure for Crypto.com as UFC’s first-ever global Official Fight Kit Partner. The new deal includes a multi-year licensing agreement for an exclusive series of UFC NFTs and a revenue share component. In addition, UFC athletes will receive fifty percent of UFC’s revenue from NFT sales.

UFC NFTs will be available on Crypto.com beginning on Thursday, November 4, with the drop of the UFC 268 Packs, which will feature limited edition collectible champion belts and event and fighter posters based on UFC 268: USMAN VS. COVINGTON 2, taking place this Saturday, November 6, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. 

“UFC is the fastest growing sport in the world, and NFTs are simultaneously surging in popularity as fans look for new and unique ways to connect with the sport, the fighters and the broader UFC community,” said Steven Kalifowitz, Crypto.com’s CMO. “UFC has been an amazing partner, and we’re excited to expand our relationship while ensuring that the fighters themselves are benefitting directly, an integral part of our commitment to ensuring that crypto is a tool for financial empowerment for all.”