Dish KO’s UFC PPV Event

Dish Network has thrown the UFC out of its pay-per-view ring by choosing not to distribute the mix martial arts organization’s live PPV event Saturday night, the UFC said Wednesday.

Citing “contractual issues,” the UFC said that Dish Network will not offer its April 25 UFC 186: Johnson vs Horiguchi PPV event. According to the organization, Dish Network has chosen not to renew its distribution agreement with the UFC for distribution of its PPV events whereas all other US provides “have come to an agreement on renewal terms.”

The event will be carried by all cable, satellite and telco distributors, according to the organization.

“We have enjoyed a strong and productive relationship with DISHC over the years, and while we’re disappointed with their decision, we are confident that our fans will be able to enjoy this weekend’s cared through several other viewing options,” the UFC said in a statement. “We remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached with DISH in the near future, but remain committed to ensuring that all fans have continued access to UFC events through multiple distribution options.”

Dish subscribers can watch the PPV event on XBOX 360, XBOX One, as well as through Roku players and at select restaurants and bars.

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.