Ladbrokes Steps Into the Octagon: A New UFC partnership in New Zealand and Australia
The renowned betting brand Ladbrokes has just clinched a significant sponsorship deal with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in Australia and New Zealand. This marks a new chapter in the symbiotic relationship between UFC and betting, aimed at engaging fans and promoting responsible gambling.
- Ladbrokes, an Entain-owned betting brand, has announced a two-year regional sponsorship agreement with the UFC in Australia and New Zealand.
- The partnership includes Ladbrokes branding in the Octagon and during UFC broadcasts, along with ambassadorial agreements with UFC athletes.
- This deal is part of Entain’s strategic shift in sponsorship, aiming at demonstrating a commitment to responsible gambling.
- The collaboration seeks to leverage UFC’s popularity to create exclusive content and fan promotions, anticipating 2024 to be the most thrilling year yet for UFC and Ladbrokes.
The synergy between the high-octane world of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and the strategic planning of Ladbrokes represents more than just a typical sponsorship—it’s a calculated move into a promising market with a fervent fan base. Under a two-year agreement, Ladbrokes gains a significant presence in UFC broadcasts and events in Australia and New Zealand, a region thrilled by the spectacles of mixed martial arts (MMA).
A Strategic Shift
Entain, the powerhouse behind Ladbrokes, is no stranger to the MMA arena. Their prior involvement through the Neds brand set the stage for this exciting turn with Ladbrokes. This transition is reflective of a broader strategic shift within Entain, particularly concerning public sentiment on gambling advertising in the sporting world. By focusing on doorway ambassadors and creating engaging, exclusive content for fans, Ladbrokes and the UFC are embarking on a mutually beneficial path that respects community values and supports responsible gambling.
More than Just a Brand on the Canvas
Nick Smith, VP of Global Partnerships at UFC & WWE at TKO, remarked on the success of Entain’s past collaborations with the UFC and expressed eagerness for the potential of this new chapter. Meanwhile, Entain is looking to deepen its engagement with Australian fans. Their interest in securing a free-to-air TV channel to broadcast sports events and promote their gambling products underlines their ambition to integrate more fully into the Australian sports landscape.
The Promise of 2024
As the UFC gears up for a monumental 2024, Entain’s decision to spotlight Ladbrokes in this evolving narrative aligns with the UFC’s initiatives to blend digital sponsorships seamlessly into its global events. Mel Kenneday, CMO of Entertain, highlighted the UFC’s matchless appeal, matching perfectly with the Ladbrokes brand ethos. Both entities aim to curate experiences that resonate deeply with fans, promising a year packed with gripping content and immersive engagements.
This partnership isn’t just about branding; it’s about creating a more connected and dynamic sporting community. With responsible gambling at its core, this alliance between Ladbrokes and the UFC could redefine how brands engage with sports fandoms, fostering a responsible yet exhilarating entertainment environment for fans in Australia and New Zealand. As we inch closer to 2024, all eyes will be on this collaboration, anticipating the innovations and thrilling moments it promises to deliver.
Oliver Jones is a seasoned journalist with a specialty in the iGaming sector. With a robust background that marries 11 years in mainstream journalism with 4 years dedicated to the online casino industry, Oliver provides a unique blend of relevant news and insightful analysis.
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