New York: The UFC has revealed a series of major updates as it prepares to launch a new broadcast era with Paramount+ in 2026. Alongside announcing several key matchups for UFC 324, the organisation hinted at a significant change to start times for its biggest cards.
Beginning in 2026, the UFC will end its long-standing partnership with ESPN, transitioning to Paramount+ as its primary broadcast home. Under the new deal, fans will gain access to 13 numbered events and 30 Fight Nights annually — all available exclusively to Paramount+ subscribers, without the traditional division between PPV and non-PPV events. Select cards will also air live on CBS.
For viewers in the UK, TNT Sports will remain the UFC’s broadcast partner.
UFC 324 to Feature New Earlier Main Card Start Time
The new era officially begins on 24 January 2026 in Las Vegas with UFC 324, headlined by Paddy Pimblett vs Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title. The co-main event will see Kayla Harrison defend her bantamweight championship against MMA legend Amanda Nunes, who will return from retirement for the high-stakes rematch.
Alongside the fight announcements, the UFC confirmed that the UFC 324 main card will begin at 2am GMT — one hour earlier than the start time traditionally used for more than a decade.
In its press release, the UFC described the adjusted schedule as an “all-new start time”, suggesting that the shift is likely to apply to future numbered events.
UFC 324 UK Start Times
- Early Prelims: 10pm GMT (Sat, 24 Jan)
- Prelims: 12am GMT (Sun, 25 Jan)
- Main Card: 2am GMT (Sun, 25 Jan)
The following week, UFC 325 — set for Sydney, Australia — is currently listed with the same earlier 2am GMT main card start time.
UK Fans Welcome Earlier Fight Nights
For British viewers, this adjustment marks a notable improvement. For over 15 years, main cards have typically begun at 3am GMT, often pushing headline bouts to 5am or even 6am.
Under the new timing structure, fans would see main events begin significantly earlier, reducing late-night fatigue and making major cards more accessible.
UFC 325: Volkanovski vs Lopes 2 Set for Sydney
UFC 325 will be headlined by the highly anticipated featherweight title rematch between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes, marking Volkanovski’s return to fight on home soil. The bout comes just nine months after their first meeting, with the Australian champion again defending his belt against the surging Brazilian contender.
As the UFC prepares to enter the Paramount+ era, fans worldwide can expect both scheduling changes and an expanded, more accessible viewing experience.
