Nestled in between the latest episodes of Glee and America’s Got Talent, the UFC finds itself oddly out of place broadcasting an event during the Tuesday night prime-time block.
Already hindered by the minuscule amount of FUEL TV providers, the world’s largest MMA promotion must now contend with top shows from the major networks as they battle for the ratings. Add in the NBA as well as the NHL playoffs, and the UFC may have a disastrous night of viewership on its hands.
On a Tuesday night, casual viewers aren’t easily swooned by what MMA has to offer as staying current on their favorite shows or other sports teams takes top priority. Big-name shows from NBC or FOX will always trump a throwaway card on FUEL TV.
While the competition may be fierce, the UFC’s biggest problem is really just a matter of timing.
Hardcore fight fans have become accustomed to a week-long build-up prior to Saturday fight nights as the plethora of pre-fight analysis and promotion get people excited for the card—regardless of whether it’s free or on pay-per-view.
“Fight week,” as UFC President Dana White calls it in his video blogs, is an integral part to hyping up a card and helps capture casual fans.
When fights are on a Tuesday, however, the hype process is less effective.
This is because the majority of the build-up is created during the week prior and is virtually forgotten over the weekend. Once Monday comes around, the UFC has less than a full day before fight night to recapture that momentum.
While more people may be home on their couches watching TV, there are just too many factors working against the UFC for them to blow away the ratings on a Tuesday night.
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