Introduction

In a surprising outburst, former UFC heavyweight fighter Brendan Schaub has suggested that the streaming problems experienced during UFC 313 on ESPN+ were not just a technical glitch, but a calculated maneuver amid current broadcast rights negotiations.

The Events of UFC 313

The highly anticipated pay-per-view event, which featured Magomed Ankalaev's title victory over Alex Pereira, faced a significant uproar as fans, fighters, and media alike struggled to access the main card after purchasing it.

UFC executives were reportedly “furious” about the situation, prompting an official statement from ESPN, which acknowledged the technical difficulties that affected users shortly after 10 PM ET.

ESPN apologized, stating, 'Our teams identified and resolved the issue, restoring full functionality ahead of the main event. We apologize for the inconvenience and are taking steps to ensure a better experience in the future.'

Fan Discontent

Despite ESPN's offer to make the main card available for free to ESPN+ subscribers the following day, the damage was done, leaving many users feeling dissatisfied.

Schaub's Speculations

Schaub aired his feelings on a recent episode of his podcast, proposing that the malfunction was a strategic posture by ESPN amid tense negotiations about the broadcast rights for UFC events.

He remarked, 'If you think that wasn’t on purpose, you’re out of your mind. That’s ESPN, who doesn’t give a flying f*ck about the UFC, really. They’re in turmoil.'

Schaub speculated that the timing of the issues coinciding with the negotiations seemed too coincidental, saying, 'That’s someone going, ‘Oh, really, you want to play hardball? This is what your numbers will look like without us.’

Historical Context

Historically, technical issues have been experienced sporadically over the course of the nearly seven-year partnership between ESPN and the UFC.

However, the nature of these difficulties, particularly during a critical negotiation phase, raises eyebrows.

Future Implications

As negotiations continue, Schaub's claims highlight a potential rift between the two organizations, a divide that may potentially impact the UFC's broadcasting future.

Despite the inconvenience for fans and fighters alike, both entities may have to rethink their strategies to maintain this lucrative relationship.

Conclusion

In light of these events, UFC fans are left questioning: Could this be the beginning of a larger fallout in UFC broadcasting? Only time will tell.