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Yes, you can watch some UFC events on YouTube TV, but the service does not include every UFC fight. YouTube TV carries ESPN and other sports networks that show select UFC Fight Nights and prelims. However, most major UFC pay-per-view events require a separate purchase through ESPN+ in the United States.
Can You Watch UFC on YouTube TV?
You can watch UFC programming on YouTube TV when it airs on a channel included in your plan. Depending on the event, UFC coverage may appear on:
- ESPN
- ESPN2
- ESPN Deportes
- ABC
- Occasionally another network carrying UFC-related programming
UFC Fight Night events are commonly shown on ESPN or another included network. Some preliminary bouts may also air on ESPN, while others are available through ESPN+.
YouTube TV’s base plan includes ESPN in most markets, but channel lineups and availability can change. Enter your ZIP code on YouTube TV’s website before subscribing to confirm the current lineup in your area.
You can also use YouTube TV’s unlimited cloud DVR to record UFC events that air on included channels. A recording lets you start later, pause, rewind, and watch the event after it ends. Keep in mind that recordings may include commercial breaks, and the event must be available through a channel in your subscription.
Does YouTube TV Include UFC Pay-Per-View?
No. YouTube TV does not include UFC pay-per-view events at no extra charge.
Numbered UFC events, such as major championship cards, are generally sold separately through ESPN+ in the United States. A YouTube TV subscription gives you access to ESPN’s regular channel broadcasts, but it does not automatically provide an ESPN+ membership or UFC pay-per-view access.
To watch a UFC pay-per-view card, you typically need:
- A YouTube TV subscription if you want to watch related ESPN coverage or prelims on ESPN.
- An ESPN+ subscription.
- A separate UFC pay-per-view purchase through ESPN+.
The exact price of the subscription and pay-per-view event can change. ESPN+ may offer different purchase options for existing subscribers and new customers, so check the event page before paying.
In many cases, early prelims are available on ESPN+ before the televised prelims and main card begin. The main card is not unlocked simply because you subscribe to YouTube TV.
How to Watch UFC on YouTube TV
If the UFC event is airing on ESPN or another YouTube TV channel, watching it is straightforward:
- Open the YouTube TV app on a smart TV, streaming device, phone, tablet, or web browser.
- Search for “UFC” or the event name.
- Select the live broadcast, or add it to your library to record it.
- Watch the event when it airs or access the recording later.
You can use YouTube TV on devices such as Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Google TV, many smart TVs, game consoles, and mobile devices. You will need a reliable internet connection, particularly for live HD sports.
For a pay-per-view event, open the ESPN app or ESPN website and sign in with your ESPN+ account. YouTube TV may still be useful for ESPN-televised prelims, but you will switch to ESPN+ for content that is exclusive to that service.
If you cannot find an event in YouTube TV’s guide, it may be airing only on ESPN+, may not be available in your region, or may be scheduled under a different program title.
YouTube TV vs. ESPN+ for UFC
YouTube TV and ESPN+ serve different purposes for UFC fans.
YouTube TV is a live TV replacement. It includes ESPN and other cable-style channels, making it useful for UFC Fight Nights, televised prelims, sports news, and other live programming. It also includes features such as multiple user profiles, unlimited DVR storage, and access on supported devices.
ESPN+ is a sports streaming service. It focuses on exclusive events and programming, including UFC content that is not broadcast on ESPN’s regular cable channel. It is generally the more important subscription for fans who want early prelims and pay-per-view UFC events.
If you only watch occasional UFC Fight Nights, YouTube TV may be enough when those events air on ESPN. If you want nearly every UFC card, you will likely need ESPN+ as well. Neither service should be assumed to include all UFC programming without checking the specific event listing.
Before subscribing, compare the monthly cost of YouTube TV with the price of ESPN+ and any required pay-per-view purchase. A sports-focused streaming service or another live TV provider may be cheaper if UFC is your primary reason for subscribing.
Tips for Watching UFC Without Missing the Main Card
UFC broadcasts often have several start times, including early prelims, prelims, and the main card. Check the official UFC or ESPN event listing for the schedule because start times can vary.
You should also confirm which service carries each portion of the event. The early prelims may be exclusive to ESPN+, while the prelims could air on ESPN and the main card may require a pay-per-view purchase.
If you use YouTube TV, add the event to your library ahead of time. This can help you avoid missing the start and lets you watch a televised portion later. For live pay-per-view coverage, open ESPN+ early and verify that your account, payment method, and streaming device are working.
Avoid relying on unofficial streams. They are often unstable, poor quality, and may expose your device to security risks. Official services provide better video quality, customer support, and reliable access to the full broadcast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch UFC Fight Night on YouTube TV?
Often, yes. UFC Fight Night events may air on ESPN, ESPN2, or another channel included with YouTube TV. Check the YouTube TV guide and the official UFC schedule for the specific event.
Can I watch UFC pay-per-view with only YouTube TV?
No. YouTube TV does not include UFC pay-per-view access. You generally need an ESPN+ subscription and a separate pay-per-view purchase for the main card.
Does YouTube TV include ESPN+?
No. YouTube TV includes certain ESPN television networks, but ESPN+ is a separate streaming service. Having one does not automatically give you access to the other.
Conclusion
You can watch UFC on YouTube TV when the event airs on ESPN or another included channel, especially for UFC Fight Nights and televised prelims. For major pay-per-view cards and exclusive UFC coverage, you will need ESPN+ and may have to pay an additional event fee. Check the event’s official listing before subscribing so you know exactly which service carries each part of the fight card.
