Combat sports continue to grow in popularity around the world, with various promotions vying for the top spot in terms of value and recognition. In 2024, five promotions have emerged as the most valuable in the industry, showcasing some of the best fighters and events in the combat sports world. These promotions have garnered a loyal fan base and have secured lucrative broadcast deals and sponsorship opportunities, solidifying their position as the leaders in the industry.
Leading the pack is the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), widely regarded as the premier mixed martial arts promotion in the world. With a roster of top-tier fighters, the UFC has consistently delivered high-quality events that draw in millions of viewers worldwide. The promotion’s partnership with ESPN has only further elevated its status, providing fans with unparalleled access to live events and exclusive content. In addition, the UFC’s ability to secure major sponsorship deals with companies such as Reebok and Budweiser has helped solidify its position as the most valuable combat sports promotion in 2024.
Coming in second is Bellator MMA, a promotion known for its exciting matchups and talented roster of fighters. While not as well-known as the UFC, Bellator has steadily grown its fan base and secured key partnerships with networks such as Showtime and CBS Sports. With a focus on developing young talent and showcasing unique events, Bellator has carved out a niche for itself in the competitive world of combat sports promotions. The promotion’s recent acquisition by media company ViacomCBS has also helped increase its value and visibility in the industry.
In third place is ONE Championship, a Singapore-based promotion that has made a name for itself in the Asian market. Known for its high production values and emphasis on martial arts values, ONE Championship has attracted some of the top fighters in the world and put on spectacular events that draw in large audiences. The promotion’s approach to mixing traditional martial arts with modern entertainment has helped it stand out from the competition and secure valuable partnerships with companies such as Disney and Facebook. With a growing presence in the global market, ONE Championship has become one of the most valuable combat sports promotions in 2024.
Rounding out the top five are Professional Fighters League (PFL) and Glory Kickboxing, two promotions that have made a significant impact in their respective fields. PFL, known for its unique tournament format and emphasis on storytelling, has captured the attention of fans and secured partnerships with networks such as ESPN and Hulu. Similarly, Glory Kickboxing has become a leader in the world of stand-up combat sports, showcasing some of the best kickboxers in the world and delivering exciting events that appeal to a wide audience. Both promotions have proven their value in the industry and are poised for continued success in 2024 and beyond.
Overall, the combat sports industry continues to thrive, with promotions like the UFC, Bellator MMA, ONE Championship, PFL, and Glory Kickboxing leading the way in terms of value and recognition. With top-tier fighters, exciting events, and lucrative partnerships, these promotions are at the forefront of the industry and have solidified their position as the most valuable in 2024. As combat sports continue to gain popularity around the world, these promotions are poised for continued success and growth in the years to come.
