"The product is strong. The brand has never been stronger."
TKO Group Holdings President and COO Mark Shapiro addressed criticism regarding the quality of UFC fight cards during a financial call on Wednesday. He cited sellout events like UFC 327 in Miami and a recent Fight Night in Perth, Australia as evidence of the promotion's strength.
Shapiro argued that the UFC is constantly building by finding up-and-coming talent worldwide and matching them in competitive fights. He highlighted rising fighters such as Joshua Van, Carlos Prates, and Michael Morales as examples of new stars emerging.
Shapiro expressed confidence in UFC CEO Dana White and his team of matchmakers, including Hunter Campbell, Sean Shelby, and Mick Maynard. He compared the UFC's cyclical nature to other major sports leagues like the NBA, noting natural ebbs and flows in popularity.