UFC

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is an American mixed martial arts (MMA) promotion company. It organizes and promotes many of the world's top MMA bouts, producing events globally, including pay-per-view events and televised Fight Nights, featuring athletes under contract with the organization.

The promotion was founded in 1993 by Art Davie and Rorion Gracie as a tournament intended to showcase various fighting styles and determine the most effective martial art. It was acquired by Zuffa in 2001, which moved its operations to Las Vegas and built the sport's mainstream appeal through standardized rules, weight classes, and global expansion. In 2016 Zuffa was sold to WME-IMG (now Endeavor), which continues to own and operate UFC.

The UFC operates under the Unified Rules of Mixed Martial Arts, with bouts contested in multiple weight classes for men and women. Most bouts are three rounds of five minutes, with title fights often scheduled for five rounds. Championships are awarded belts, and the promotion runs a mix of numbered events and UFC Fight Night cards.

Media and reach: Events are broadcast through a combination of pay-per-view, network television, and streaming. In the United States, distribution is provided through ESPN and ESPN+, with the UFC's Fight Pass service offering live events and a library of past fights. The organization also maintains training facilities such as the UFC Performance Institute.

The UFC has grown into a major global sports brand but has faced criticism over fighter pay, health and safety concerns, and regulatory issues. It operates under athletic commissions and anti-doping programs in various jurisdictions.