It was a matter of time before the pay-per-view event category moved into the 3D space.
This Saturday In Demand and the UFC will team to distribute the UFC 143 PPV event in 3D to cable subscribers with 3D-ready television sets, according to In Demand officials.
Many ring sports observers have speculated that mixed martial arts and boxing events would play very well in 3D. Now consumers with 3D TV capability, compatible 3D glasses and an HD set-top box will be able to watch the Feb. 4 Nick Diaz-Carlos Condit UFC card via the technology.
UFC fans wanting to experience the event live in 3D will also have to ante up a suggested retail price of $64.99 for the privilege — $20 more than the standard definition version and $10 more to view it in HD.
UFC president Dana White believes UFC fans will jump at the opportunity to watch the 3D PPV event, saying in a statement that, “the fans love 3D, so I’m happy to give them this championship fight live and in 3D on cable systems across the country.”
So is there a pent-up desire to watch UFC or a big ticket PPV boxing events in 3D, and would fans be willing to pay a premium fee for the opportunity? Saturday night’s event will give In Demand and the cable industry its first look at the future potential for 3D PPV events.
