How to Watch UFC Fights: A Complete Guide

The Ultimate Fighting Championship is the most popular mixed martial arts organization in the world, and its fights are some of the most exciting and action-packed sporting events on the planet. If you're a fan, or mixed martial artist, you already know how much fun it is to watching UFC fights.

In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about how to watch UFC fights, including how to find fights, order the pay-per-view (PPV), and watch Fight Nights using ESPN+. We'll also discuss the difference between PPVs and Fight Nights, and provide some tips for getting the most out of your UFC viewing experience.

Finding UFC Fights

The first step to watching UFC fights is finding out when and where they're happening. The UFC's website is the best place to start, as it has a complete list of upcoming events.

You can also check out the UFC's social media pages, or follow MMA news sites to stay up-to-date on the latest fight announcements. Once you've found a fight that you want to watch, you need to decide how you're going to watch it.

There are two main options:

  • Pay-per-view (PPV): PPVs are the traditional way to watch UFC fights. You can order them through your cable or satellite provider, or through streaming services like UFC Fight Pass. PPV prices tend to go up each year.
  • Fight Nights: Fight Nights are UFC events that are broadcast on ESPN or ESPN+. Fight Nights are typically free to watch, but you may need to have a subscription to ESPN+ to access some of the fights.

Ordering the PPV

If you've decided to order a PPV, the process is pretty straightforward. Simply open ESPN+, type the name of the event (UFC 303, for example), and order the PPV.

They will give you step-by-step instructions on how to complete the order. You can also order PPVs through streaming services like UFC Fight Pass.

To do this, simply create an account on the streaming service and then follow the instructions on how to order the PPV.

Watching UFC Fights on ESPN+

If you have an ESPN+ subscription, you can watch UFC Fight Nights live and on-demand. To do this, simply open the ESPN+ app on your device and navigate to the UFC section. You can then select the fight that you want to watch.

ESPN+ also offers a number of other benefits for UFC fans, including:

  • Exclusive access to UFC Fight Pass content, including past fights, documentaries, and interviews
  • Live streaming of UFC press conferences and weigh-ins
  • Access to UFC Fight Club, which offers exclusive content, discounts, and rewards
MMA fighter standing cage side looking into the Octagon.
Unless you're coaching, good luck getting a seat this close.

Cost of Watching UFC Fights

The cost of watching UFC fights can vary depending on how you choose to watch them. Here is a breakdown of the costs:

  • PPVs: In 2024, PPVs typically cost $79.99 (tax not included).
  • Fight Nights: Fight Nights are typically free to watch, but you may need to have a subscription to ESPN+ to access some of the fights. ESPN+ subscription plans start at $10.99 per month.

Get the Most Out of Your UFC Experience

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your UFC viewing experience:

  • Watch the fights with friends: UFC fights can be even more fun when you watch them with friends. Get a group of friends together and have a watch party.
  • Make some snacks and drinks: Watching UFC fights is a great excuse to have some snacks and drinks. Make some popcorn, nachos, or pizza, and grab some beers or sodas. (You'll understand when you watch the entire fight card from start to finish.)
  • Get into the spirit: Wear your favorite UFC gear and cheer on your favorite fighters. The more into the spirit you get, the more fun you'll have.

Watch the Prelims and Early Prelims

Another important thing to keep in mind is that you do not have to pay for the PPV in order to watch the Early Prelims and Prelims on the under-card. Major fight cards, like UFC 300 have up to 8 free fights you can watch before the main event.

Even thought the venue won't usually start to fill up until the prelims wrap up, the earlier fights are still worth watching. If you go to a live event and don't want to sit in your seat for hours upon hours (or for the entire event), we get it.

But if you're watching at home, why not tune in for the action?

Attend a Live Event

If you're a hardcore fan, you might want to skip the whole PPV process entirely. You can buy tickets and watch the event live!

Ticket prices vary depending on the event, but you can expect to pay more for tickets to an event with high profile fighters. You can order regular tickets, or VIP packages.

Watch this video to see what was included with the VIP experience for YouTuber, Troydan.

Enjoy The Next Event

Watching UFC fights is a great way to get your blood pumping and enjoy some of the most exciting sporting events on the planet. With so many different ways to watch UFC fights, there's sure to be an option that's right for you. So grab your friends, some snacks and drinks, and get ready to enjoy the next UFC event.