How to Watch UFC Fights in the USA: ESPN+, PPV & Streaming Options

UFC has exploded in popularity across the United States, and for fight fans, the big question is simple: How do I watch the fights?

Whether it’s a stacked pay-per-view card like a Conor McGregor comeback, a Fight Night headlined by rising stars, or prelims featuring future champions, knowing where and how to tune in matters.

The UFC has built strong broadcasting partnerships, and in the U.S., ESPN is the exclusive home for UFC content. But with streaming platforms, pay-per-view (PPV) packages, and different devices to choose from, it can get confusing.

This guide breaks down every way to watch UFC fights in the USA—from ESPN+ subscriptions to PPV purchases and streaming options that keep you connected on fight night.

ESPN+: The Home of UFC in the U.S.

In 2019, the UFC signed a major deal with ESPN, making it the go-to destination for fans in the United States. That deal shifted everything—now, if you want to watch UFC events legally and reliably, ESPN+ is the answer.

Here’s what ESPN+ gives you:

• UFC Fight Night events – These are included with your ESPN+ subscription at no extra cost. They feature rising contenders, big-name fighters, and title eliminators.

• Prelims for pay-per-view cards – Before the PPV main card, prelims are shown on ESPN+ (and sometimes ESPN2 or ABC).

• Exclusive UFC content – Access to original shows, fighter interviews, replays, and classic fights.

Cost:

• ESPN+ subscription is $10.99/month or $109.99/year.

• New subscribers can sometimes bundle ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu for a discounted package.

For casual fans, ESPN+ is an easy entry point. For hardcore fans, it’s essential.

UFC Pay-Per-View (PPV) on ESPN+

If you want to watch the biggest fights—like title defenses, super fights, or blockbuster returns—you’ll need to buy the UFC PPV through ESPN+.

• Price: Each UFC PPV is currently $79.99 (as of 2025).

• Access: You must have an ESPN+ subscription to order and watch a PPV event.

• Devices: Available on smart TVs, Fire Stick, Roku, Apple TV, iOS/Android, and web browsers.

Tip: ESPN+ often offers PPV + annual subscription bundles for new users. This can save you money if you’re planning to watch multiple UFC cards in a year.

Watching UFC on Cable TV

While ESPN+ is the main platform, some UFC events still air on traditional ESPN and ABC.

• Select prelims often run on ESPN2 or ESPN before the PPV.

• Big Fight Nights may be simulcast on ESPN cable and ESPN+.

• ABC broadcasts happen occasionally for special events, bringing UFC action to free TV.

If you already have a cable subscription with ESPN, you’ll get access to these. But for full coverage—including all PPVs—you still need ESPN+.

Streaming UFC on Different Devices

One of the best parts about ESPN+ is how flexible it is. You can stream UFC fights on almost any device, making fight night easy to set up no matter where you are.

• Smart TVs: ESPN app available on Samsung, LG, and other connected TVs.

• Streaming Devices: Works with Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Chromecast.

• Mobile & Tablets: Download the ESPN app on iOS or Android to stream on the go.

• Laptops & Desktops: Simply log in via the ESPN website to watch from a browser.

This flexibility makes it simple to never miss a fight—whether you’re at home or traveling.

UFC Fight Pass: What It Offers in the USA

While ESPN+ covers live events in the U.S., the UFC Fight Pass still has value for hardcore fans.

• Archive access: Thousands of past UFC fights, plus content from other MMA promotions.

• Live events from regional promotions: LFA, Cage Warriors, and more.

• Early prelims: Some fight cards stream early prelims on Fight Pass before ESPN picks up coverage.

Cost: $9.99/month or $95.99/year.

Fight Pass is more of a supplement than a replacement—it’s great for fans who want to dive deeper into MMA beyond just UFC headliners.

Can You Watch UFC Free in the USA?

Legally, UFC fights are not free in the U.S. outside of rare ABC broadcasts. Free streams you may find online are unofficial and often risky (low quality, malware, and takedown issues).

If you’re looking for the most cost-effective way:

• Subscribe to ESPN+ for Fight Nights and prelims.

• Buy PPVs selectively (only the cards you truly care about).

• Use Fight Pass if you’re interested in archives and regional MMA.

How Much Does It Cost to Watch UFC in the USA?

Here’s a quick breakdown for 2025:

• ESPN+ subscription: $10.99/month or $109.99/year

• UFC PPV event: $79.99 per event (subscription required)

• UFC Fight Pass: $9.99/month

A hardcore fan watching every PPV and holding both subscriptions could spend around $1,200 per year. Casual fans who only subscribe to ESPN+ spend closer to $110 per year.

Best Way to Watch UFC in the USA (My Recommendation)

For most American fans, the best setup is:

1. Subscribe to ESPN+ for Fight Nights, prelims, and exclusive UFC content.

2. Buy PPVs selectively for major events and title fights.

3. Add Fight Pass if you love MMA history or want to follow regional talent.

This combination ensures you get the biggest fights, stay updated with live events, and enjoy UFC’s rich fight library without overspending.

Final Thoughts

Watching UFC in the USA has never been easier—or more flexible. Thanks to ESPN+, you can stream fights on almost any device, whether you’re at home on the big screen or traveling with your phone. Pay-per-view events are still the crown jewels, but Fight Nights and prelims offer tons of action without extra costs beyond your ESPN+ subscription.

As the UFC continues to grow in 2025, expect even more streaming options, bundles, and coverage that make fight night accessible to fans everywhere.

No matter how you choose to watch, one thing’s certain—the Octagon will always deliver excitement.