On Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2014, the UFC announced an exclusive partnership with Reebok, making the apparel and shoe company the official provider of fighter uniforms for the UFC.
Reebok will create and develop, in conjunction with UFC brass and fighters, the uniforms (or ‘Fight Week’ gear and ‘Fight Night’ kit) for all UFC fighters. In the deal, Reebok also becomes the exclusive apparel provider for all UFC consumer products.
Also announced was a partnership with Fight for Peace, an international not-for-profit that uses boxing and martial arts along with education and personal development, to help young people that live in communities that are affected by high crime and violence realize their potential. Starting in 2015, a percentage of sales from the Reebok/UFC product will benefit the charity.
“This partnership is much more than a licensing agreement,” stated Reebok President Matt O’Toole. “It is a true collaboration between two great brands, which will not only give UFC a new and exciting look, but it will harness the global reach of both brands to also benefit young people around the world, particularly those at risk of being involved in crime and violence.”
The kits will be released some time in the Spring of 2015. Starting on July 6, 2015, all fighters will be wearing their new ‘Fight Week’ gear and ‘Fight Night’ kits.
The deal, reported to be a six-year deal, will be a new revenue stream for fighters. UFC President Dana White proclaimed that, “The UFC won’t make a dime on the deal.”
According to UFC.com, the athlete outfitting compensation is a tiered system based on each athlete’s ranking at the time of the weigh-in, irrespective of broadcast type and placement on the fight card.
A video of the press conference appears above (courtesy of the UFC).