Published on: March 5, 2026, at 12:28 PM.
Updated on: March 5, 2026, at 12:29 PM.
- UFC partners with bet365, ending its collaboration with DraftKings
- Integration of bet365 into UFC broadcasts will include on-screen betting updates during live events
- Launch of partnership set for Saturday during UFC 326 in Las Vegas
DraftKings is stepping away from UFC operations, as bet365 takes over, securing exclusive betting and fantasy rights for the upcoming five years across the U.S. and Canada.
Announcement Timed for UFC 326
Bet365, a leading global online gambling operator, has been designated as the Official Sports Betting Partner of the UFC through a multi-year agreement.
The announcement coincides with the upcoming UFC 326 event on Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, beginning at 9 PM EST, headlined by a lightweight rematch between Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira.
With this collaboration, bet365 will be featured in UFC broadcasts through on-screen betting updates during live events, odds for fighters linked to each bout, and same-game parlay features highlighted throughout the event coverage.
Emphasis on Real-Time Betting
UFC 326 is set to showcase nine main card and preliminary matches. The bet365 partnership encompasses all UFC events held annually, including numbered events and Fight Nights. The collaboration will officially commence during the weigh-ins scheduled for tomorrow, with bet365 providing a 50% profit boost token via their app for wagers placed on Saturday’s event.
This collaboration with UFC represents a pivotal moment for bet365 as we enhance our global expansion and strengthen our dedication to sports where live action and fan engagement are intertwined,” remarked Trip Stoddard, Head of Development at bet365.
“The continuous UFC event calendar and its highly engaged international fanbase create a robust platform for real-time betting, and our premier product offerings uniquely position us to elevate the fan experience for every fight.”
Concerns Over Betting Practices
Recently, the UFC has faced scrutiny regarding betting activities, notably during UFC 324 in Las Vegas, where UFC CEO Dana White disclosed at a post-fight news conference that a bout between Alexander Hernandez and Michael Johnson was scrapped due to questionable betting activities.
This incident marks the second alert raised by Integrity Compliance 360, a global advisory firm specializing in integrity monitoring and risk management for sports betting and igaming operators, regarding irregular betting that prompted UFC action.
Michael Johnson is competing on Saturday’s card against Drew Dober in a lightweight bout, while Hernandez has not yet been re-scheduled by the UFC.
Engaging Fans with Live Odds
Despite these challenges, the UFC remains a favorite among bettors, fostering in-play wagering and live odds engagement.
bet365 introduces scale, reliability, and innovation to the sports betting industry, and we’re excited to cultivate this long-term partnership at such a significant moment for UFC,” stated Nicholas Smith, Senior Vice President, Global Partnerships TKO.
“bet365 is an ideal match for UFC because they comprehend the needs of fight fans and their methods of engaging with the sport in real time. This partnership enriches the viewing experience, offering fans deeper insights, dynamic odds, and enhanced ways to responsibly engage with each bout, from the initial bell to the final decision.”