UFC partners with an encryption prediction platform, sports live streaming is going to be transformed by Blockchain.

Core Update: UFC and Polymarket announce a multi-year collaboration to directly integrate prediction market technology into live sports broadcasts. Starting in 2026, all UFC and newly established Zuffa Boxing events will be exclusively broadcast on Paramount+, equipped with a real-time “fan prediction scoreboard”.

What does it mean?

When the audience watches the match, the screen will display the real-time predictions of the market regarding the probability of the fighter's victory—these data come from the on-chain prediction market on Polymarket. In simple terms, it visualizes the sentiment data from a decentralized prediction platform, allowing fans to see how the market views this match, with emotional changes visible round by round.

It is not gambling, but a display of collective emotions. Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan described this as a “milestone moment for sports and blockchain innovation.”

What new tricks are there?

Zuffa Boxing Debut: This is a new boxing event under TKO, with the first match in January 2026. Polymarket becomes the official brand partner, and there will be an interactive scoreboard and user-generated story content during the event.

Social Media Interaction: The official UFC account will promote the “Matchup Predictions – Who's Next?” series, where fans guess the next fight opponent on social media platforms. The Polymarket platform will simultaneously open corresponding markets, and online discussions will directly convert into on-chain data.

Why is this interesting?

This is the first official embrace of on-chain prediction markets by traditional sports. It's not a project in the crypto space playing by itself, but rather one of the largest fighting organizations in the world actively integrating crypto technology, transforming prediction markets from a niche tool into a viewing experience for millions of spectators.

The logic of TKO is very clear: to transform passive viewing into interactive participation through technology. For Polymarket, this is a key step in entering mainstream culture.

Opinion: This cooperation could set a precedent. If the results are good, it wouldn't be a dream for other sports leagues (NBA, Premier League, etc.) to follow suit. The crypto prediction market is finally no longer a “niche tool,” but has entered the mainstream sports experience.