How should the UFC change in 2014?
The UK based BT.com hopes for some changes in 2014: Title bouts overseas on their free TV, an end to TRT, FightPass that works, and a new Pride FC.
The UK’s BT.com assembled a panel and asked what changes they want to see in the UFC in 2014.
“The UFC have already sacrificed some title bouts for US network television, helping to establish their product to a bigger mainstream audience… The regional markets are growing, but the one-off marquee fights will only boost the sport’s popularity – and media coverage – around the world.”
“I think the majority of fans, fighters and even the UFC brass would prefer to see TRT banned. These athletes are operating at an elite level where the difference between winning and losing is the finest of margins. The thought that someone could exploit a legal loophole to push those margins is unacceptable.”
“A slightly left field suggestion, but I’d love to see the UFC’s Fight Pass become a resounding success, and for other promotions to follow suit. One of the biggest gripes I hear from fans in the UK, Europe – basically anywhere outside of North America – is that MMA isn’t accessible to them.”
“I think we’re missing a big, top-tier promotion like Pride FC that produced the best rivalry in all of MMA and was a viable alternative outside of the UFC, as well as having a different flavour of combat for fans. Maybe One FC could grow into that as they’re doing some good things, but a legitimate rival to bring out the best from East and West would be huge for the sport.”
So that was:
•Title bouts overseas on their free TV;
•End of TRT;
•FightPass that works; and,
•New Pride.
What one change would you want to see in 2014?