Fact Check: Are UFC prelims free?

Are UFC Prelims Free?

The claim in question is whether UFC prelims are available for free viewing. This inquiry arises from the various broadcasting arrangements and streaming services associated with UFC events, which can vary depending on the specific fight card and the platforms involved.

What We Know

1. Broadcasting on ESPN: UFC prelims are often broadcast on ESPN, which is a cable network. Viewers typically need a cable subscription to access ESPN, but there are options for streaming without a traditional cable package. For instance, FuboTV and Sling TV offer free trials that can be utilized to watch prelims without cost if subscribed during the trial period 14.

2. UFC Fight Pass: UFC also provides its own subscription service called UFC Fight Pass, which allows access to prelims and other content. However, this service requires a paid subscription, meaning it is not free 3.

3. Free Streaming Options: Some sources mention that there are websites offering free streaming of UFC events, but these sites often operate in a legal gray area and may not provide reliable or safe viewing experiences 7.

4. Event-Specific Availability: The availability of free viewing can vary by event. For example, the prelims for UFC 293 were available for free via specific streaming services that offered promotional trials 49.

5. ESPN+ Subscription: For many UFC events, particularly pay-per-view (PPV) events, an ESPN+ subscription is required to view the prelims. However, some UFC Fight Nights may be available for free to ESPN+ subscribers 510.

Analysis

The claim that UFC prelims are free is nuanced and depends on several factors, including the specific event, the viewer's existing subscriptions, and the availability of promotional trials from streaming services.

• Source Reliability: The sources cited provide a mix of information regarding the broadcasting of UFC prelims. For example, Sporting News and PennLive are established sports news outlets that typically provide accurate information about sports events 14. However, sources like the one discussing free streaming sites may lack credibility, as they often promote illegal streaming options and may not be reliable 7.

• Potential Bias: Some sources may have a vested interest in promoting certain streaming services, particularly those offering free trials. This could lead to a bias in how they present the availability of free viewing options. For instance, articles promoting FuboTV or Sling TV may emphasize their free trials without adequately discussing the limitations or conditions associated with these offers.

• Methodology and Evidence: The methodology behind determining whether prelims are free is often based on promotional offers and the specific broadcasting rights for each event. This can lead to variability in availability, making it essential for viewers to check the details for each fight card.

• Additional Information Needed: To fully assess the claim, it would be helpful to have a comprehensive list of upcoming UFC events along with their specific broadcasting arrangements. Additionally, clarity on the terms of free trials and any potential costs after the trial period would provide a clearer picture for viewers.

Conclusion

Verdict: Partially True

The claim that UFC prelims are free is partially true, as there are instances where prelims can be viewed without charge, particularly through promotional trials offered by streaming services like FuboTV and Sling TV. However, this availability is not consistent across all events, and many prelims require a subscription to services such as ESPN+ or UFC Fight Pass, which are not free.

It is important to note that the availability of free viewing options can vary significantly depending on the specific event and the viewer's existing subscriptions. Additionally, while some sources mention free streaming sites, these often operate in a legal gray area and may not be reliable or safe.

The evidence supporting this claim is mixed, and the variability in broadcasting rights and promotional offers introduces uncertainty. Therefore, readers should critically evaluate the information and check the specific details for each UFC event to determine the availability of free viewing options.

Sources

1. Where to watch UFC 306 prelims: Free live stream, channel, start time - Sporting News [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mma/news/where-watch-ufc-306-prelims-free-live-stream-channel-start-time/59ac5594cf71770862cf4dd7]
2. UFC Fight Cards, Watch Times, Live Stats | UFC.com [https://www.ufc.com/events]
3. Watch UFC on UFC Fight Pass | UFC - UFC.com [https://www.ufc.com/watch]
4. UFC 293 Israel Adesanya vs. Sean Strickland prelims free - PennLive [https://www.pennlive.com/sports/2023/09/ufc-293-israel-adesanya-vs-sean-strickland-prelims-free-live-stream-how-to-watch-time-channel-bout-order.html]
5. How to Live Stream UFC Fights Online in 2023 - Men's Health [https://www.menshealth.com/entertainment/a38771655/how-to-livestream-ufc-fights/]
6. UFC 286: Edwards vs. Usman 3 - ESPN Press Room U.S. [https://espnpressroom.com/us/press-releases/2023/03/ufc-286-edwards-vs-usman-3-saturday-march-18-exclusively-on-espn-ppv/]
7. Best Nine Free Streaming Sites to Watch UFC Online in 2025 [https://repairit.wondershare.com/online-video/ufc-live-free-live-stream.html]
8. UFC 293: Adesanya vs Strickland | UFC - UFC.com [https://www.ufc.com/event/ufc-293]
9. Adesanya vs. Strickland UFC 293 Prelims: Free Live Stream Online - Sports Illustrated [https://www.si.com/tv/ufc/2023/09/09/adesanya-strickland-ufc-293-prelims-free-live-stream-online]
10. How to watch UFC Fight Night: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo - New York Post [https://nypost.com/2025/05/03/sports/how-to-watch-ufc-fight-night-sandhagen-vs-figueiredo-for-free/]