Today the UFC sent out a press release officially announcing a partnership between the promotion and sports drink, Monster Energy.

The UFC® today confirmed a new partnership with Monster Energy®, to be the official energy drink of the UFC. This new exclusive deal – which excludes Brazil – continues UFC’s approach of partnering with industry-leading companies that share the same values and vision to further maximize and expand branding opportunities worldwide.

The UFC® is excited to partner with a category leader like Monster Energy and introduce them to our fans who embody the same enthusiasm and passion synonymous with their brand, UFC Executive Vice President of Global Marketing Partnerships Michael Mossholder said. This new multi-year deal will bring new and exciting experiential opportunities and unique in-market retail promotions. We are excited to partner with the world’s leading mixed martial arts organization as the official energy drink of UFC as we expand our commitment into the MMA category, said Sam Pontrelli, Monster Energy Senior Vice President of Marketing. Through this partnership we will build a stronger brand position and expand our reach globally, thereby gaining exposure to a new audience while supporting the sport’s premiere athletes. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.  Monster Energy will also be sponsoring select athletes including UFC women’s bantamweight champion Rowdy Ronda Rousey, as well as UFC® lightweight champion Anthony Showtime Pettis and former UFC welterweight champion and current No.1 welterweight contender Johny Bigg Rigg Hendricks, both of whom are competing at UFC® 185 in Dallas this coming Saturday.

Additional UFC athletes will be announced at a later date.