Promotion announces deal for international television rights
Bellator Fighting Championships today announced a deal to give FremantleMedia Enterprises the rights to conduct negotiations on its behalf for international television, digital and licensing deals.
Media conglomerate Viacom recently acquired a majority stake in the tournament-based promotion. Bellator airs in over 80 million homes on MTV2 and Epix HD. The promotion is expected to move to Spike TV in 2013.
“This deal further diversifies FME’s third party slate and builds on our reputation as experts at identifying and exploiting the potential of emerging brands,” said David Ellender, FME’s CEO. “The sport of mixed martial arts is gaining momentum with fans worldwide, and we can see huge potential for the Bellator brand across all platforms, both in the US and internationally.”
Bellator’s fifth season is currently in progress, featuring 8-man tournaments to name new contenders for their championship titles.
“The incredible athleticism and intensity exhibited in all of our mixed martial arts tournaments translate into any language,” said Bjorn Rebney, Chairman, CEO and Founder of Bellator. “With FME as our partner, we will have the ability to showcase our high-intensity brand of fighting to millions around the globe.”
