[smoogy]

January 11, 2008
UFC Close to Budweiser Sponsorship?

Multiple sources within the industry have told MMAPayout.com that the UFC is on the verge of consummating a deal with Budweiser. Negotiations reportedly began as part of the UFC's negotiations with CBS. Once the CBS deal stalled, conversations continued between the UFC, Budweiser, and Spike TV.

It should be noted that none of the sources referenced are parties to the negotiations (i.e. placed within the UFC or Budweiser). As a result, the above report should be considered rumor or informed speculation at best. It also bears mentioning that the situation is fluid and can change quickly, as evidenced by similar situations with the UFC and HBO/CBS.

UFC President Dana White has been adamant in recent media appearances that the company is on the verge of landing several blue chip sponsors. Budweiser, on the heels of Harley-Davidson, would certainly fit that bill and silence much of the criticism directed at the UFC for its failure to lure mainstream sponsors.

Payout: The Business of MMA: UFC Close to Budweiser Sponsorship?