As noted earlier today, our understanding is that ESPN are in the running to become the new home of UFC programming in the UK following the collapse of Setanta Sports on Tuesday.

When reached for comment, an ESPN spokesman told iFight365.com: “We continue to be interested in sports rights that are available and that make business sense.”

Sources have also told us that Bravo are in the frame, which was always likely the case anyway given that Dana White said prior to UFC 99 that the show would air there had Setanta folded earlier this month.

Reports elsewhere today suggest Five and Sky Sports could also be interested in picking up the UFC’s UK television rights.

The UFC are expected to announce their new UK television deal in the near future.

Phil Lowe
phil@ifight365.com