UFC 323 was a highly anticipated event, with a stacked card featuring two title fights and a sold-out arena. Fans were expecting an unforgettable night of action and chaos, and the prelims certainly delivered. However, when the broadcast numbers came in, a different story began to circulate. It was not about the quality of the fights, but rather the reach of the event. UFC 323 prelims became the worst-performing card of 2025 in comparison to other pay-per-view events.
This news came as a surprise to many, especially considering the hype surrounding the event. The main card featured some of the biggest names in the sport, including Conor McGregor, Jon Jones, and Amanda Nunes. The prelims also had their fair share of exciting matchups, with rising stars and established veterans looking to make a statement.
So, what went wrong? How did UFC 323, which seemed like a surefire success, end up being the worst-performing card of the year? Let’s take a closer look at the factors that may have contributed to this unexpected outcome.
One of the main reasons for the low reach of UFC 323 prelims could be the timing of the event. In 2025, the UFC had been hosting events almost every weekend, with multiple cards in a single month. This saturation of events may have led to viewer fatigue, with fans choosing to skip the prelims and only tune in for the main card.
Moreover, the UFC had also been facing stiff competition from other combat sports promotions, such as Bellator and ONE Championship. These organizations had been putting on exciting events and signing top talent, which may have drawn some viewers away from UFC 323.
Another factor that could have affected the reach of the prelims is the rise of streaming services. With the increasing popularity of streaming platforms, many fans may have chosen to watch the event through illegal streams rather than paying for the pay-per-view. This would have resulted in lower broadcast numbers and ultimately affected the reach of the event.
However, despite the disappointing reach of UFC 323 prelims, it is important to note that the quality of the fights was not the issue. In fact, the prelims delivered some of the most thrilling and entertaining matchups of the year. From knockouts to submissions, the prelim fighters put on a show for the fans in attendance.
One standout performance came from rising star, Max Holloway, who put on a dominant display against his opponent, earning himself a spot on the main card for his next fight. Another highlight was the co-main event between two top-ranked featherweights, which ended in a back-and-forth battle that had the crowd on their feet.
Despite the low reach, the UFC 323 prelims proved to be a night of exciting and unpredictable fights. It showcased the depth and talent of the UFC roster, with lesser-known fighters making a name for themselves and established stars solidifying their positions.
In conclusion, while UFC 323 prelims may have been the worst-performing card of 2025 in terms of reach, it was by no means a failure. The event delivered on its promise of chaos and entertainment, with the fighters putting on a show for the fans. The low reach could be attributed to various factors, but it does not take away from the quality of the fights. As the saying goes, “quality over quantity,” and the UFC 323 prelims certainly proved that.