Mark Shapiro Discusses Potential UFC Move to HBO/TNT and Confirms Work on Non-Exclusive WWE Library Deal

TKO Group COO Mark Shapiro has addressed a deal for the extensive video library of WWE and a potential broadcast shift involving UFC amid Warner Bros. Discovery’s uncertain corporate future. Speaking at the UBS Global Media and Communications Conference on December 9, Shapiro said TKO would be open to UFC airing on HBO or TNT if Paramount’s takeover bid for WBD moves forward. He noted that a merged structure could create new opportunities for UFC in 2026, as both networks have established success with live sports audiences.

UFC’s U.S. media rights move from ESPN to Paramount next year, while AEW continues airing on TNT and HBO Max under its existing WBD arrangement. Shapiro’s comments indicate that ongoing mergers and media consolidation could again shift combat sports across major broadcast and streaming platforms. He also noted that WWE’s new homes on Netflix for RAW and on Peacock for selected events illustrate how rights packages now vary across multiple distributors (Via Fightful).

“I don’t know how this Netflix thing is going to play out, but if Paramount is able to get that asset, I like a world where [UFC] could potentially live on HBO. I like a world where we could potentially live on TNT. Historically, these are sports destinations. They’ve had their years of carrying premium sports and they’ve shown they can attract an audience for sports, but they can convert an audience for sports.”

Regarding WWE, Shapiro confirmed that TKO is negotiating a non-exclusive deal for WWE’s extensive video library once the Peacock agreement ends early next year. He expects an announcement during the first quarter of 2026. Peacock will continue airing quarterly Saturday Night’s Main Event broadcasts, but the long-term placement of the whole archive remains undecided. Shapiro added that NXT’s premium live events have not yet been marketed, as TKO finalizes its broader content strategy (via Fightful).

“We haven’t gone to market yet on the NXT PLEs, we have a lot on our plate right now and we want to be smart and strategic about that. We’re in no rush. We need to be deliberate and thoughtful. As it relates to the library, we’re working on a non-exclusive deal at the moment. I think we’ll have something to announce in Q1 [Quarter 1 2026],” he said.

Shapiro emphasized that the company is considering multi-platform models rather than committing to a single partner, pointing to an evolving streaming market that rewards flexibility and reach.

At the UBS conference, TKO President Mark Shapiro says he would love to see UFC live on HBO or TNT if Paramount can get WBD.

"I like a world where we (UFC) could potentially live on HBO or TNT." pic.twitter.com/jQBO1vdHLN

— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) December 9, 2025