Is MMA About to Blow Up?

by Michael Rome on Jun 3, 2008 10:28 PM EDT in MMA News

Affliction just sent out a press release announcing a press conference to announce a partnership with Donald Trump.

Network MMA was a big success, and we may be seeing the beginning of the real MMA boom. Almost two months ago, I wrote that the summer would be very dangerous for Zuffa , and it looks like the first danger fully lived up to its potential and more.

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Trump...a name that means something.

Look what it did for the USFL and the US Poker Championship. I would have to see what his effect is before believing that his association is a milestone. Personally, I think the guy survives by getting his name on everything, not a serious business acumen.

by the exit on Jun 3, 2008 11:00 PM EDT reply actions

USPC

what’s wrong with the USPC?

by !claw on Jun 3, 2008 11:29 PM EDT up reply actions

Big news, but broadcasting-wise what can Trump offer?

by Gong on Jun 3, 2008 11:23 PM EDT reply actions

At the very least he’s got ears at NBC from The Apprentice, right?

by Chris Nelson on Jun 3, 2008 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions

The fixed fights at EliteXC and now A T-Shirt Company partnering with Trump? Zuffa is gonna be just fine.

by MrNiceGuyMMA on Jun 3, 2008 11:31 PM EDT reply actions

I agree. Affliction would have to do a couple of shows, and stick around for a year or so and release financial numbers before I’d put any real traction on whether Zuffa is gonna be in trouble.

by pud333 on Jun 4, 2008 1:48 AM EDT up reply actions

I think the headline’s use of the term “blow up” refers to exponential growth of the sport, not implosion. The competition between promoters will raise the quality and availability of the product and MMA fans (new and old) will all find their favorite niche (assuming that the promoters maintain high profits).

by Jaydoggydog on Jun 4, 2008 1:06 AM EDT reply actions

How many times have we been through this…very wealthy business man throws his hat into the MMA world….only to get it ran over by the Zuffa machine…this will be no different IMO. As soon as UFC gets on FOX or somewhere like that…forgetaboutit.

by Tha Realness on Jun 4, 2008 8:04 AM EDT reply actions

This may be slightly different, or it may not be. But Affliction has a pretty decent cast of fighters to start out with, and they are putting on a show with all of their big names right away. Having the wealthy business man behind them will allow them to absorb the hit they will likely sustain with their first event. It’s hard to say, and I don’t think anyone will overtake UFC (anytime soon, anyway).

by Popetastic on Jun 4, 2008 11:09 AM EDT reply actions

One show worth of stars?

Why is it that they all just want to book STARS that other promotions have built?

I’d like to see a promotion come in and create new stars! With the amount of media attention all the new MMA businesses gather, there’s no reason they can’t! Pick up some new talent with potential and get two shows worth of stars against up and coming talent!

All being easier said than done, of course!

There are a million other ways of doing this MMA business, but everyone is trying to be the UFC, but with a twist.

all you gotta do is...

by imapimp08 on Jun 4, 2008 2:45 PM EDT reply actions